At the Crossroads of Innovation

On Architects Inc. transforms a traditional village into an innovative beacon, symbolising the power of cultural exchange and inviting diverse cultures to converge and collaborate.

Words by Joel Wong | Images courtesy of Yoon Joonhwan

In the heart of a village steeped in the age-old traditions of rice and flower farming located in Incheon-si, South Korea, the team at On Architects Inc. unveiled a visionary project named NONSPACE. In response to an ageing demographic, this design aims to breathe new life into the quaint village by introducing an experimental cross-cultural haven, aptly termed “cross-space,”, which fosters dynamic exchanges among diverse cultures.

Envisioned as the foundational stage for a distinctive local private sector cultural hub, NONSPACE is designed to transcend the conventional confines of commercial domains. The cross-spaces, situated at the junctures of both widthwise and depthwise dimensions, weave a tapestry of endless possibilities. These spaces are not uniform in nature, but rather unique experimental realms, hence the moniker “NONSPACE.”

Here, cultures converge and intertwine, co-creating something entirely novel. These cross-spaces, extending through both the widthwise and depthwise axes, promise to yield a rich tapestry of cross-cultural experiences in an infinitely expansible manner.

The innovative use of rice-straw exposed concrete redefines the indoor ambiance, inviting occupants into a realm reminiscent of a woven straw sanctuary. Prior to concrete placement, bundles of rice straw are carefully laid atop the slab form and imbued with water, allowing them to absorb the concrete’s moisture. Afterward, the form and straw are removed, leaving behind an ethereal imprint of the rice straw within the concrete. Over time, the space will evolve with the ever-changing nature of the straw.

Upon entering the cross-space, a sensory symphony unfolds. The shifting sky, rustling wind, and the gentle murmur of flowing water through a floor-level aperture beckon. The water transcends mere visual aesthetics, offering an auditory delight. The service spaces on either side reveal the source of this watery melody. Amongst trees that traverse all seasons, visitors encounter yet another void space, providing a visual sense of expansiveness amidst a stony landscape. The olfactory senses are invigorated by the enticing aromas emanating from the service area.

As you traverse the indoor expanse, you’ll encounter an array of natural phenomena: openings and closings, contractions and expansions, luminance and shadow. At the terminus of these nine spaces forged by the widthwise and depthwise orders, a diverse array of external vistas awaits. Pebbles beneath your feet on the rooftop provide a harmonious accompaniment to the mellifluous sounds of flowing water.

NONSPACE is more than an architectural marvel; it is a living, breathing testament to the power of human connection. As the seasons change, so too does the spirit of this space. It transcends the physical, offering an immersive journey through the senses and forging bonds across cultures. Through NONSPACE, On Architects Inc. has not only revitalised a village but has ignited a beacon of hope for a future defined by unity and innovation.

About On Architects Inc.

On Architects Inc endeavours to become a sustainable group conducting endless experiments on various alternatives to create limitless values and business models based on architecture. On Architects explores local architecture, transcending physical and environmental considerations, to enhance human connections within communities. Their vision encompasses innovative values, social insights, and sustainable models for small-scale architectural relationships.

For more information, visit

On Architects Inc. | www.on-u.kr