Erum Church / Lee Eunseok + Atelier KOMA

Architects: Lee Eunseok + Atelier KOMA
Area: 8164 m²
Year: 2012
Photographs: Namgoong Sun
Electrical Engineer: Hangil Engineering
Structure Engineer: Eun Structural Engineering
Construction: Gangson Construction.
Mechanical Engineer: Jusung ENG,
Client: Erum Church
City: Yongin-si
Country: South Korea

Erum Church, designed by Lee Eunseok and Atelier KOMA, revitalizes an abandoned sloped site in Suji-gu, Youngin-gu. This innovative structure features large concrete panels shielding the sanctuary and educational facilities from urban noise and dust. A flexible space serves multiple purposes, connecting visually and physically with the city, while the cross tower and lobby embody the church’s mission of blending urban functionality with spiritual aspiration.

Erum church / lee eunseok + atelier koma

Erum Church is situated on a steep street in the bustling district of Suji-gu, Youngin-gu. Large concrete panel blocks shield the main sanctuary and educational facility from the dust and noise of the busy road. A prominent window at the center of the façade allows for neighborhood watch programs to operate effectively.

Positioned between two roads with an elevation difference of three stories, a flexible space traverses the entire volume of the church. This area functions as the entrance and main lobby, an open café, and a multi-purpose parking lot, establishing visual and physical connections with the city.

The urban function is encapsulated within Erum Church, while the street’s essence is embodied in the vertically placed cross tower. Streets typically have a focal point and distinctive scenery, and the stairs within the tower fulfill this role by offering a destination and outward views. The tall lobby in front of the main sanctuary functions as an indoor plaza. Situated on a previously abandoned sloped site between a highway and an overpass, the church has breathed new life into the area. The vertical view of the staircase from the lower street and the horizontal spatial experience from the curved rear wall reflect the church’s mission to connect the divine with the earthly and serve the community through its architectural design.