Close

Rediscovering Tradition – Jung Hoon Lee

The South Korean designer blends ancient hanok elegance with contemporary design in a modern furniture context

“The allure of objects steeped in history offers comforting nostalgia, evoking a sense of familiarity and connection.” Designer Jung-hoon Lee’s [Heritage Gwol] series embodies this sentiment, blending modern craftsmanship with the timeless essence of antique heritage. This collection of contemporary craft furniture seamlessly integrates into everyday life while emanating an ancient aura. Inspired by the symbolic forms and colours of Korea’s traditional hanok architecture, the [Heritage Gwol] series offers a modern reinterpretation of the age-old beauty inherent in hanok. This exploration particularly delves into Giwa, the roof tiles crafted from soil or cement that are emblematic of hanok structures.

The series aims to capture the aesthetic allure found in various Giwa types, the structural elegance supporting the roof, and the delicate curves intrinsic to hanok design. These elements combine to create furniture that reflects the subtle sophistication of Korea’s cultural heritage through a contemporary lens.

“Amid the rise of ‘glocalism’ – blending global and local influences – there’s a growing interest in researching and celebrating traditional cultures worldwide. 

This movement fosters a renewed appreciation for each country’s heritage, driving the exploration of new aesthetic forms and functional designs relevant to modern life.” says the designer. In response to this trend, Lee reimagines Korea’s unique cultural and aesthetic sensibilities, adapting them to align with global design trends. 

The Latest

An Ethereal Stay

A bespoke, cultural and spiritual adventure awaits in the remote, magical Kingdom of Mustang with the all-inclusive Shinta Mani Mustang – A Bensley Collection hotel

Celebrating artistry, heritage, and community

Casamia & Mustard & Linen host a cultural exchange celebrating Emirati Women’s Day

Skyline Serenity

A family home in Almaty, Kazakhstan blends modern architecture, bespoke craftsmanship and global design icons

Trend Group supplies to the Red Sea’s most prestigious projects

Mohamad Chehab, the general manager of Trend Group Middle East talks about the group's involvement in the Red Sea Projects

A New Chapter in Surfaces

APE Grupo brings Spanish expertise to the Middle East with a flagship showroom designed for visionaries

The Art of Distinction

Influenced by Art Deco design, Supreme by TREDEX now features a striking Matt Bourbon finish

Read ‘The Luxury Issue’ – Note from the editor

Our cover features Gaggenau, a brand that embodies design for the truly discerning.

Sarita Handa and Kristina Zanic Consultants Unveil DEEBAJ

Sarita Handa and Kristina Zanic Consultants announce the launch of DEEBAJ, a special-edition textile collection that reinterprets the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia through the artistry of Indian craftsmanship.

Design Take: GABA

Inspired by the philosophy of GABA tea, fermented without air or light, Studio Meshary AlNassar translated this concept into an interior that is hidden, intimate, and layered with sensory detail.

Geared for Growth

ClayArk opens an expanded showroom showcasing their expansion into sanitary ware

Holiday Vibes at Home

California sunshine and French country charm meet in this 510-square metre house with a dream pool cabana and peaceful garden

Things to Covet

Nature-inspired meets future-ready for these sustainable pieces