In the bustling city of Seoul, South Korea, architect Minwook Choi of Smaller Architects faced a challenging yet promising opportunity when he came across a neglected 355-square-foot lot. The plot had been abandoned for an extended period, and many believed it was too small to construct anything substantial. However, the affordable price and the untapped potential of the site intrigued Minwook, leading to the creation of the Seroro House—a 710-square-foot vertical tower that embraces natural light and offers respite from the urban context.

The Seroro House stands tall, adorned with white acrylic stucco, on the compact urban lot. The strategic placement of windows on the southern and western facades ensures the home is bathed in sunlight while allowing panoramic views of the lush hillside and nearby park. These vistas offer a connection to nature, allowing the residents to witness the changing seasons and find solace amidst the chaos of the world, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The interior of the Seroro House is designed to enhance the beauty of the surrounding environment. White plasterboard walls provide a clean and spacious backdrop, turning the expansive windows into living artworks that showcase the vibrant greenery outside. The home is organized over five stories, with each level carefully designed to optimize functionality and maximize space.

The second level is dedicated to the kitchen and dining area, where large windows frame the treetops of the adjacent hillside, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. The simplicity of the white kitchen cabinetry and walls ensures that the focus remains on the stunning views.

The distinctive curved design of the Seroro House, following the shape of the land, adds an element of intrigue. Minwook describes the structure as resembling a lighthouse, captivating the attention of onlookers and igniting curiosity. The steel-framed wood staircase, painted white to seamlessly blend with the crisp interiors, maximizes space while adding a touch of modern elegance.

The Seroro House offers more than just a stylish and functional living space. It provides an alternative to traditional housing in Seoul, where long commutes are the norm. With an average daily commute of two hours, and sometimes even reaching up to four hours, the compact and cost-effective nature of the tiny house offers residents the opportunity to save valuable time. This leads to an improved quality of life, allowing for more meaningful experiences and a greater connection with the surrounding community.

In a city that never sleeps, the Seroro House stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in creating harmonious living spaces. By embracing natural light, capturing stunning views, and maximizing functionality within a limited footprint, Minwook Choi has crafted a vertical haven that combines simplicity, beauty, and the joys of urban living.