Reimagining Seoul's Traditional Homes

From a Scandinavian-inspired update of traditional hanok to a minimalist rendition of a classic 80s red brick apartment block, Stayfolio, a Korean-based homestay platform is offering jetsetters the opportunity to live like a chic Seoulite.

- KAREN TEE

Idragmy suitcase through a confounding web of tiny lanes, eyes peeled for a sign. After a few false turns, I finally spot a discreet "Habre" on a brick wall, the name of the hanok located in Seoul's upand-coming Seochon neighbourhood. This will be my home for the next two nights.

Crossing the main threshold of the traditional Korean dwelling into the peaceful inner courtyard, my frazzled, lost self immediately feels calmer as I pause to admire the compact, zen-like stone paved garden featuring one small tree and a few small shrubs.

The interiors have been painstakingly restored to feature the architectural hallmarks of South Korea's traditional hanok buildings, such as exposed timber beams, sliding door panels, and heated wood flooring.

The latter, a hallmark of traditional hanoks due to the bitter winters in Korea, are an indulgent touch in a modern space, which is decked out with Google Home, equipped with heating, air-conditioning, as well as light and music controls.

And for a fresh decor twist, Habre is tastefully inspired by Scandinavian aesthetics, such as floral-themed Swedish wallpaper and streamlined Danish furnishings, most of which are vintage. With a dining area and kitchenette as well as a cosy elevated nook for the bed, this hideaway already feels like home - which is exactly the point of it all.

HANOKS REIMAGINED

Seasoned travellers often rave about the charms of staying in traditional ryokan or converted machiyas (townhouses) in Japan. But in South Korea, hanok stays, while not unheard of, are not as commonplace among international jetsetters, in part due to a lack of access to information.