Silhouette

Cabinet inspired by traditional Korean Door

Project duration : 4 month (2024.10 - 2025. 02)

Role : product designer /Research, ideation, sketching, prototyping, model making, photography.

Project type : Self-produced project / participated in Design Award

Award : Awarded by Isola Design Award Finalist.

https://isola.design/Designer-Projects-silhouette

Hanji and the Changho Lattice 

One of the defining characteristics of Changho is the use of traditional Korean paper, Hanji. Its translucent surface allows light to pass through while revealing the silhouettes and shadows of the wooden lattice beneath. During the day, daylight enters from outside, making the structure of the slats visible from within. At night, when the interior is illuminated, this relationship reverses — the silhouette of the lattice becomes perceptible from the outside.

Complementing this play of light, Changho is defined by the variety of patterns formed by its delicate wooden slats. The intersecting lines create subtle geometric compositions that not only stabilize the structure, but also establish a calm, restrained rhythm within the space.

From 2D Pattern to 3D Structure 

Inspired by the Aja-sal pattern of traditional Changho, this project explores the transformation of a two-dimensional lattice into a three-dimensional structure. Rather than applying the pattern as surface decoration, the lattice is treated as a structural element that defines depth, rhythm, and enclosure. The process involved extensive sketching and a series of prototypes testing different structural systems, proportions, and formal variations — gradually refining the pattern into a stable and functional three-dimensional construction.

Model Making

The wooden components were cut, drilled, and assembled to form the structural framework of the cabinet. All wooden surfaces were finished with a white wax oil, chosen to create a soft, restrained appearance that harmonizes with the translucency of Hanji.

The Hanji was applied using the same traditional method used in Korean Changho construction. A wheat-based paste was prepared and diluted with water, then brushed onto the paper. The edges of the Hanji were fixed to the frame while still wet, allowing the paper to dry under tension and become naturally stretched across the surface.

Silhouette Cabinet

Silhouette is a cabinet that draws inspiration from traditional Korean Changho, wooden lattice doors covered with translucent Hanji paper. The design reinterprets the serene geometry and poetic shadows of Aja-sal—a classic Korean lattice pattern—into a contemporary three-dimensional furniture piece.

The original two-dimensional lattice motifs have been transformed into vertical wooden slats that wrap around all four sides of the cabinet. This reinterpretation creates a layered spatial experience: narrow gaps subtly hold books upright, while wider openings offer flexible areas to display objects. Each side presents a unique perspective of the lattice pattern, creating a dynamic visual rhythm.

Two front-facing doors are finished with Hanji paper, referencing the traditional Changho structure. When closed, the internal lattice casts delicate shadows onto the Hanji, forming soft silhouettes that change with the natural light throughout the day. These shifting shadows bring a gentle sense of movement and atmosphere to the space.

Each door rotates up to 270°, enabling one side of the cabinet to remain open while the other stays concealed. This dual configuration allows users to selectively reveal the contents or highlight the interplay of light and shadow created by the lattice design.

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