Learn more about Hanok
General HanokHanok refers to traditional Korean houses, known for their unique architectural style and cultural significance. The term "hanok" translates to "Korean house" in English. Hanok architecture has a long history, dating back several centuries, and embodies the traditional Korean way of life. The design of hanok reflects the principles of harmony with nature, balance, and the Confucian ideals of respect for hierarchy and social order. These houses are designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment and utilize natural materials, such as wood, stone, and clay. Key features of hanok architecture include: Structure: Hanok typically consists of a wooden framework, with pillars and beams supporting the roof. The construction relies on interlocking wooden elements without the use of nails. Roof: Hanok roofs are gently sloping and covered with traditional Korean roof tiles known as giwa. The curved eaves provide protection from rain and shade during the summer.
Floor Plan: The floor plan of hanok is characterized by a modular structure with various interconnected rooms surrounding a central courtyard or garden area. The layout depends on the social hierarchy, with the most important rooms located towards the inner part of the house.
Ondol Heating: Ondol is a unique Korean underfloor heating system found in hanok. It involves heating stone slabs under the floor, allowing the warmth to rise and provide heating during cold winters.
Interior Design: Hanok interiors are simple and minimalistic, with an emphasis on natural materials. The walls are often made of paper or wood, allowing for flexibility and natural light to enter the space. Folding screens, known as hanji, are used to divide the rooms and add a decorative element.
Courtyard and Gardens: The central courtyard, known as madang, serves as a gathering space and provides natural light and ventilation. Hanok often feature small gardens with elements like rocks, trees, and a water feature, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere.
Hanok played a vital role in Korean culture and daily life, reflecting the social structure and values of the time. While the number of hanok has significantly reduced in urban areas due to modernization, efforts are being made to preserve and promote hanok as an important part of Korea’s cultural heritage.
Passive house without nails Hanok is a traditional Korean house that is typically constructed using a unique architectural technique that does not rely on nails. Instead, it employs a system of interlocking wooden beams, columns, and brackets to provide structural stability. The primary elements of a hanok's wooden structure are the pillars (jib), beams (gyeok), and brackets (gongpo). These components are carefully crafted to fit together without the need for metal fasteners. The pillar and beam system forms the framework of the house, while the brackets provide additional support and reinforcement. The pillars of a hanok are usually made of large, sturdy wooden logs. They are positioned vertically to support the roof and distribute the weight of the structure. The beams, on the other hand, are horizontally placed and rest atop the pillars. They span the width of the house and bear the load of the roof. To connect the pillars and beams, a technique called "giwa" is used. Giwa involves the precise cutting and shaping of wooden joints to create a strong and secure connection. The joints are often complex and require skillful craftsmanship. Different types of joints are used depending on the specific location and purpose, such as the "dapo" joint for connecting the pillar and beam at right angles, or the "deung" joint for connecting beams end-to-end. The brackets in a hanok, known as gongpo, are another integral component of the structure. They are often intricately carved wooden pieces that are placed at the corners and intersections of the beams and pillars. Gongpo not only provide additional support but also add aesthetic appeal to the hanok. These brackets are designed to fit precisely into the joints and provide stability to the overall structure. The absence of nails in hanok construction allows for flexibility and resilience. It enables the wooden components to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of damage. This construction technique also allows for disassembly and reassembly, which is particularly useful when moving or relocating a hanok. Hanok architecture is deeply rooted in Korean culture and reflects the country's historical building traditions. The construction methods used in hanok emphasize harmony with nature and a balance between the natural and built environments. The absence of nails not only showcases the ingenuity of traditional Korean craftsmen but also contributes to the unique aesthetic and cultural value of hanok houses. Hanok Sangryangmun calligraphy work
Hanok Cooperative says Although many processes have been replaced by tools or machines, there are still processes that rely only on human hands. In particular, the construction of narrow alleyways where equipment is difficult to enter is tile and soil, and all materials are brought in to the site by hand.
After completion, it is invisible, but you can imagine it, and if you can imagine it, you can feel that the house is not just a simple physical entity.
Hanok is built Nature-friendly Hanok architecture is inherently nature-friendly and showcases a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature. Several aspects contribute to the eco-friendliness of hanok construction: 1. Natural Materials: Hanok is predominantly built using natural materials such as wood, earth, and stone. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and have a lower carbon footprint compared to synthetic or industrial materials. The use of natural materials promotes sustainability and reduces environmental impact.
Hanok Cooperative says When repairing a hanok, old members are often recycled. In this case, the old grime is removed through sanding.
2. Energy Efficiency: Hanok design emphasizes energy efficiency by utilizing natural ventilation and passive heating and cooling methods. The strategic placement of windows, doors, and vents allows for the efficient flow of air, reducing the need for artificial cooling or heating systems. Additionally, the thick walls of hanok provide insulation, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
3. Integration with the Environment: Hanok is designed to blend with the natural surroundings. The layout of a hanok typically incorporates a central courtyard or garden (madang), allowing for ample green space and natural elements within the property. This integration with the environment promotes a sense of connection to nature and provides spaces for outdoor activities and gardening.
4. Rainwater Harvesting: Traditional hanok architecture often incorporates rainwater harvesting systems. The sloping roof design directs rainwater into gutters and channels, which lead to storage tanks or reservoirs. This collected rainwater can be used for various purposes, such as watering gardens or flushing toilets, reducing reliance on treated water sources.
5. Sustainable Landscaping: Hanok houses often feature gardens with native plants and trees, promoting biodiversity and providing habitats for local wildlife. Traditional Korean gardens, known as “soojiwon,” are designed to evoke a sense of serenity and balance. These gardens often incorporate natural elements such as rocks, ponds, and pathways, creating tranquil spaces that are in harmony with the surroundings.
6. Longevity and Durability: Hanok structures are built to withstand the test of time. The use of interlocking wooden beams, pillars, and intricate jointing techniques ensures structural integrity and longevity. The durability of hanok reduces the need for frequent reconstruction or replacement, contributing to sustainability and resource conservation.
Overall, hanok architecture embraces sustainable principles by utilizing natural materials, emphasizing energy efficiency, integrating with the environment, and promoting eco-friendly practices. These characteristics make hanok a nature-friendly housing option that aligns with the principles of environmental conservation and sustainable living.
Hanok Cooperative says After modeling each member based on the actual dimensions and construction method of Buseoksa Muryangsujeon, this model was printed with a 3D printer and assembled to a size of 1/15.
All dimensions were based on the data from the actual measurement of Muryangsujeon and the repair report.
What is Dancheong Dancheong, also known as "dan-jcheong" or "dancheongpae," is a traditional Korean decorative painting technique used in architecture and crafts. It involves the application of vibrant colors and intricate patterns to wooden structures such as temples, palaces, and traditional houses (hanok). The word "dancheong" literally translates to "red and blue-green," which were traditionally the primary colors used in this technique. However, over time, the palette expanded to include a wider range of colors. The designs often feature various motifs, such as flowers, birds, clouds, dragons, and other auspicious symbols. Dancheong is not limited to painting on flat surfaces but also involves wood carving and lacquer work. The process typically begins with applying a base layer of pigments on the wood surface, followed by the application of several layers of colored lacquer or oil-based paints. The artist then uses brushes, sponges, or other tools to create intricate designs and patterns. Historically, dancheong was considered a symbol of wealth, status, and beauty. It was used to decorate the ceilings, pillars, doors, and eaves of important buildings, adding a vibrant and eye-catching element to the architectural structures. Today, dancheong continues to be an essential part of traditional Korean culture and can be seen in historical sites, cultural heritage sites, and even modern buildings that draw inspiration from traditional Korean design.