Cafe De Pearl

Cafe de Pearl: A Dynamic Facade Embracing the JinYang Lake Sunset

Nestled serenely in the embrace of JinYang Lake's natural beauty, 'Cafe de Pearl' is an architectural creation designed to prioritize harmonious interaction with its surrounding landscape. A distinctive feature is its elevated placement, strategically positioned higher than the adjacent road to fully capture the breathtaking sunset views over JinYang Lake. More than just a cafe, this establishment aims to offer visitors an emotional experience, establishing itself as a new hotspot and a regional landmark in JinYang Lake.

The massive concrete ramp installed to overcome the elevation difference from the road surface functions as a crucial element in creating the building's dynamic facade, rather than merely serving as an access point. This robust yet elegantly extended ramp completes Cafe de Pearl's striking first impression and provides visual delight to visitors.

Within the scale limitations of a natural greenbelt area, we've implemented subtle approaches to maximize the presence of this small-scale building. A partition wall installed at the front of the building adds visual depth, with an external staircase organically placed upon it, ensuring both functionality and design. Notably, a triangular opening in the center of the partition wall frames the movement of people ascending and descending the stairs, creating another distinctive facade. This opening connects internal and external views, infusing the space with unexpected vibrancy.

A circular water feature at the base of the partition wall enhances visual and auditory pleasure. The partition wall and opening are intricately positioned to intersect the boundary of this water feature, offering visitors an engaging outdoor spatial experience. The gentle movement of water and the reflection of light temper the cool properties of concrete and glass, creating a warm and sensory ambiance. All these elements contribute to the architectural completeness of 'Cafe de Pearl' through harmony with nature.

The interior, spanning two floors, focuses on maximizing spatial perception. The central part of the second floor is openly designed, with several circular pendant lights symbolizing pearls installed to imbue the space with elegance and a sense of depth. The building's longitudinal sides feature full glass walls, allowing for expansive views of the picturesque scenery from any vantage point. The southwest offers panoramic views of JinYang Lake, while the northeast overlooks a beautifully landscaped garden, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior and encouraging deep engagement with nature.

Cafe de Pearl is not just a place to enjoy coffee; it will be remembered as a special destination where architecture, nature, and human experience converge harmoniously. Here, visitors will feel an unforgettable emotion, find genuine relaxation and inspiration amidst nature, and experience the profound value of the space that architecture offers.

Location: 225-1 Panmun-dong, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea
Use: Class 1 neighborhood living facility (café), Culture and Assembly Facility (Exhibition Hall)
Site Area: 1,676m²
Building area: 259.84m²
Gross floor area: 416.50m²
Bldg. Scale: 2F
Structure: RC
Exterior Finish: Exposed Concrete

Architect: MIND ARCHITECTS
Structural engineer: WELL Structural Engineering.
Mechanical engineer: World Engineering
Electrical engineer: World Engineering
Construction: ANP Construction Inc.
Photographer: Dongkyu Yoon