“Healing Stay KOSMOS Resort”
Mythical and futuristic at the same time, the Healing Stay Kosmos resort sits atop a steep peak on Ulleung Island in South Korea. The island – born from a volcanic eruption 2.5 million years ago – is home to immaculate sea caves, waterfalls and forests. The_System Lab and lighting designers EON SLD drew from the majestic nature of the location in their design. With undulating, pristine white surfaces, the buildings mimic the waves of the sea beneath.
The area consists of two main structures: Villa Kosmos, whose interiors take to the universe and space as a theme, and Villa Terre, which symbolizes the earth. The lighting concept plays an important role in the design. The team emulated natural light found on the island through artificial lighting, so that guests can enjoy the surrounding nature fully. With this setup, the team accentuated the organically formed architecture and provided minimum brightness at night to maximize visual comfort.
Exterior lighting references sun rays through forest canopies and moonlight reflected on the waves, while the interior fixtures are placed behind the partially perforated ceilings to create an undisruptive atmosphere. By carefully considering the natural light on and around the site, the designers ensured a gentle and harmonious atmosphere, where guests can appreciate the panoramic sights.