Escape House

Escape House

Escape House is an innovative architectural masterpiece that redefines residential design through its bold departure from conventional suburban housing aesthetics. Located in Pohang, Korea, this distinctive concrete structure, designed by architects Hohyun Park, Hyunjoo Kim, and Seonggon Cho, presents a compelling dichotomy between its monolithic street-facing facade and its open, panoramic views of surrounding woodlands. Completed in October 2020, the structure encompasses 328 square meters of living space across multiple levels, featuring a sophisticated skip floor structure that creates varied spatial experiences and dramatic viewpoints throughout the residence. The design philosophy draws inspiration from the progressive rock song La Villa Strangiato by Rush, embodying the concept of creating an intentionally unfamiliar presence within a typical suburban setting. The house's distinctive features include a reinforced concrete structure with silver cloud stone finishes, reaching a height of 9.5 meters. A central staircase serves as both a functional element and social space, connecting half-levels while providing a gathering area beneath a skylight. The project, which earned a Silver A' Design Award in Architecture, Building and Structure Design category, exemplifies excellence in architectural innovation through its unique interpretation of escape from ordinary daily life. The design successfully challenges conventional residential architecture while maintaining functional efficiency, incorporating elements such as a rooftop space that provides outdoor living opportunities, particularly valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic. The project's name carries dual significance, with the 'E' representing difference and distinctiveness, while 'escape' refers to its role as a sanctuary from conventional suburban living.

architectural innovation, contemporary residential design, concrete architecture, spatial experience, suburban sanctuary, modernist housing

— Adam Dawson

CITATION : "Adam Dawson. 'Escape House.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/escape-house?E=451822 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"