Magazine
A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
In an era of postmodernism, the approach of dwelling on gender issues in the workplace might seem rather clichéd. However, statistics from Korea's National Statistical Office in 2014 reveal that female architects in Korea comprise less than 10% of all architects. The situation in the United States is not much different, with a gender ratio of about 4:1 in the architectural field. Approximately 28% also show a male income advantage. While various reasons may account for these outcomes, there is a certain poignance in the struggles of female architects deprived of opportunities. Regardless, I met a young female architect who seems compelled by nature to architecture. Just as gender issues fade away in the professional world, she appears unfazed by the difficulties of being a female architect. While she admires the world-renowned architect Louis Kahn, she does not wish to be confined to his style. On a morning with gentle spring rain, I sat across from architect Soohui Choi at Cafe Angelique in Tenafly.
Interview by Gabi Choi, Photos by Bojun Kwon
Originally a train station and then transformed into a beauty salon in the 1960s, this location has now become the charming Cafe Angelique and a landmark in Tenafly. I personally enjoy the sentiment that emerges when architectural forms fulfill their original roles and are then repurposed. Sitting in this café, I pondered the countless individuals who once traipsed here to board or alight from trains. "Brick, What do you want to be?" is a famous quote from the esteemed architect Louis Kahn during one of his lectures, opening a window not just to the façade of a building but to the soul embedded within it. I began by asking my first question with the thought of needing a shift in perspective to regard architects as creators.
Editor: Gabi Choi, Photography: Bojun Kwon
Soohui Choi, please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello, I am Soohui Choi, an architect. I graduated from Hanyang University's Department of Architecture and pursued a master's degree at Michigan University. Since moving to New York in 2012, I built practical experience in architecture, interior design, and exhibitions at firms such as NHDM, Ten to One, and Andrew Berman Architect. In 2016, I began working with Daekeon Jeong under the name JeongChoiWorks. Our work, based on urban and architectural observation and research, spans books, exhibitions, and installations. Recently, I've also started working as a freelancer.
What inspired your interest in architecture?
The influence of my father, who majored in architecture, was substantial. Watching him familiarized me with the profession. A talent for drawing and a love for mathematics naturally led me to consider architecture as a career where I could leverage my strengths. Reflecting on childhood, I recall building houses with recycled boxes provided by my mother—dreams from a young age that I've maintained to this day.
The topic may seem clichéd, but could you discuss the challenges of being a female architect in Korea?
Contrasting Korea and the U.S., architecture departments in Korea are within engineering, often viewed similar to a "no-woman's zone," while in the U.S., they are within art colleges, making access easier for female students. Gender hasn't been a major hurdle as both advantages and challenges exist. Rather than striving to break prejudice, embracing positive approaches to highlight women's strengths is crucial.
Who are your favorite architects, and why?
It's a bit hesitant to answer as naming someone could limit my aspirations and direction. That said, I personally admire Louis Kahn, a renowned architect and educator at Yale and Penn, noted as a master of modernism. He is celebrated for merging traditional motifs into creative modern architecture. While not entirely aligning with my style, Zaha Hadid is also noteworthy. As a representative of deconstructivism postmodernism, she revolutionized form-based architecture with innovative ideas. Moreover, Hadid's Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Korea feels particularly familiar as it was her last masterpiece.
Can you briefly introduce the characteristics of your work?
As a young, less experienced architect, I think more varied work will define my style. With JeongChoiWorks, I'm actively exploring themes through exhibitions, installations, and research and expressing them freely. Rather than only creating new buildings, I aspire to preserve the essence of existing structures while infusing them with a modern taste.
What considerations should an architect begin with for good architecture?
Since buildings are for people, understanding their lifestyles and how they wish to live is essential. Aesthetic appeal, creativity, and harmony with the surroundings are key considerations for good architecture.
What studies do architects need?
My father emphasized studying philosophy to understand people, but I also practice observing architecture directly, building a viewpoint that exceeds mere external appearances. Analytical approaches to specific themes, such as libraries, are also pursued.
What are the pros and cons of being a minority architect in the U.S.?
Being among diverse architects doesn't render a feeling of disadvantage. However, cultural differences required additional learning. Understanding different clients' priorities and keeping pace with societal shifts, such as gender issues, is crucial. Minority architects can capitalize on unique creativity and cultural insights, which clients interested in Korean culture value deeply.
Could you share your future plans?
While being an architect offers stability with predetermined roles in a firm, personal projects often remain limited. Hence, I've started freelancing to delve into personal interests, striving to balance firm work with independent projects.
