Located in Gunsan, South Korea, Office 1969 revitalizes the annex building of Leesungdang, Korea's oldest bakery, through a philosophy of minimal intervention. The project demonstrates how historical structures can be thoughtfully adapted for contemporary use while preserving their cultural significance.

Our approach centered on four key principles: structural authenticity, temporal layering, functional adaptation, and connection to place. We preserved the exposed concrete ceilings and columns, celebrating rather than concealing their age. New elements were deliberately distinguished from original features, creating a visual dialogue between past and present that reveals the building's evolution since its construction in 1969. The executive area showcases our strategic problem-solving: we raised the floor level to address the challenge of high windows, enabling seated exterior views while maintaining the original facade. Throughout the space, circular motifs inspired by Leesungdang's 75-year baking tradition create subtle references to the company's heritage.

Despite working within a historical framework, we achieved exceptional workplace functionality through thoughtful interventions. Glass partitions provide acoustic separation while maintaining visual connectivity across the office. The preservation of original circulation patterns connects employees to the building's history, fostering appreciation for the company's legacy.
Modern infrastructure—including lighting, HVAC, and cabling—was carefully integrated using minimal wall and ceiling elements to preserve spatial authenticity while meeting contemporary requirements. This "invisible innovation" demonstrates how historical and modern elements can coexist harmoniously.

The project's sustainability is rooted in adaptive reuse itself—extending the functional life of an existing structure rather than demolishing and rebuilding, significantly reducing embodied carbon and construction waste while preserving cultural heritage.

Office 1969 stands as a thoughtful embodiment of how South Korea's oldest bakery honors its past while embracing the future, creating a workplace that respects historical roots while adapting to contemporary needs.