Korea Style - by Marcia Iwatate & Kim Unsoo (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Simplicity, moderation, constraint, and a deep respect for all things natural--such are the intrinsic elements of Korean 'style' that continue to underpin the fast-growing creative movement in a country hurtling into an era of global modernization. Although traditional influences from China and modern influences from Japan and the West have filtered into Korea over the millennia, the peninsula has maintained its own identity and is gaining recognition for its own particular 'style.' Spatial, spiritual, and material qualities are reflected in the simple beauty of its architectural design, while classic objects that immediately distinguish themselves as being uniquely Korean are used with vernacular panache in interior decoration. In this first international publication devoted to the country's architecture and interior design, authors Marcia Iwatate and Kim Unsoo and photographer Lee Jongkeun explore twenty-four exceptional homes, studios, and public and heritage buildings. Ranging from vernacular to cutting-edge creations, all are a celebration of the country's natural landscape, arts and crafts, and architectural heritage, juxtaposed with a drive towards invention, experimentation, and individuality."--Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

Simplicity, tradition and a deep respect for all things natural--these are the essential elements of Korean design underpinning the nation's fast-growing creative scene.

Influences from China, Japan and the West have filtered into Korea, but the peninsula has always maintained its own identity. Spatial, spiritual and material qualities are reflected in the simple beauty of its architecture, while classic objects with a Korean aesthetic are used with panache in interior decor.

This is the first book to document Korea's architecture and design scene. Authors Marcia Iwatate and Kim Unsoo present 24 exceptional homes, studios and heritage projects. Ranging from vernacular to cutting-edge contemporary, these showcase the nation's constant drive to invent and create.

Review Quotes

[Korea Style] is an inspirational piece for both the everyday and the professional student of design. --East West blog

Don't be fooled into thinking [a commitment to minimalism] means cold or empty. These are rich, textural spaces that make you think about home in a whole new way. --Capital Times

Iwatate and art exhibitor Unsoo show how vernacular Korean home design and decoration with its regard for [s]implicity, moderation, constraint, and a deep respect for all things natural has been incorporated into the 20-plus contemporary commercial and residential buildings visited here. --Library Journal

About the Author

Marcia Iwatate is one of the stars of the Japanese design and food industry. She has been involved in art direction and fashion advertising in Tokyo and New York, and has designed numerous restaurants in Tokyo and Seoul. She is currently principal partner of Marei Ltd and commutes between Seoul and Tokyo. Iwatate is the author of Japan Houses and co-author of the award-winning Shunju.

Kim Unsoo was born in Korea and educated in the United States. She has worked in the contemporary art field in both New York and Seoul. As director of Kukje Gallery in Seoul, she has organized exhibitions of the works of world-renowned artists such as Bill Viola, Anish Kapoor, and Richard Long. She lives in Seoul.

Lee Jongkeun is one of Korea's foremost photographers of interiors, food, and products since establishing Apo Associates in 1995. He is active in the field of advertising and contributes regularly to design and lifestyle magazines. He is photo director for Marie Claire and Maison Marie Claire and publishes catalogues and books through his firm Guru Visual.

Clark E. Llewellyn has served as director of the School of Architecture at Montana State University since 1995. He maintains an award-winning practice and is on the National Board of Directors for the American Institute of Architects. He visits Korea regularly and has contributed writings on Korean architecture.