Han aesthetics

This project proposes a Korean medical aesthetic clinic in New York City, informed by both my cultural background and the global growth of the aesthetics industry. The design is rooted in Korea’s long-standing connection between beauty, health, and wellness, dating back to the Three Kingdoms era, and draws inspiration from Korean temple food, which emphasizes intentional ingredients and “beauty from within.” This concept is translated into a centrally organized plan, where the waiting area anchors the space and treatment rooms radiate outward, similar to a meal composed of a main dish and surrounding banchan. The layout also reflects principles found in traditional Korean architecture. Material decisions are informed by key ingredients: the plan originates from the radial structure of a lotus root, the facade and entry reference the perilla leaf, and interior finishes evoke the texture and warmth of ginger root. Together, these elements create a cohesive environment that merges Korean wellness philosophy with contemporary medical aesthetics.