Architect Moon Hoon investigates sculpture through architecture in one of his recently completed projects called the ‘Conan House’ or Toy House. Situated right in front of the beautiful Bang Dong Lake in Yuseong District of Daejeon, South Korea, the structure is a white irregular cube with geometrical carvings on its surface.
“When visited for the first time, the vacant site seemed to invite some kind of a sculptural object, unhindered by its neighbours, standing rather conspicuously…” recalls Architect Moon Hoon.
Commissioned by a young television producer & toy collector as a residence for his family, the architecture had to be playful and dynamic. Since the client’s father was also a collector, it was evident that the collector gene was running in the family and hence a dedicated exhibition space was a must. The House has a central core that is used as an exhibition space and a railing for his toys. The main feature of this house is its staircase which is characterized by its spiral stairs and jagged floor levels that follow the staircase all the way up to the attic, where you can find a small red slide that traverses the void. The other functioning spaces such as living room, kitchen and bedrooms are attached to the staircase. Windows are placed in the centre of each wall replicating the outer shape of the structure and allowing sufficient light into the interiors.
While the interiors has a very playful environment, the exterior of the house is equally exciting. The structure appears to be like a sculptural object or somewhat like a fictional spacecraft. The overall design has an aesthetic appeal which is fun, inviting and instantly sparks a sense of curiosity.
