Taichung Cultural Center

The dark silhouetted form is carved away, leaving ample shaded public space below, and sun-soaked terraces above. Informed by local landmarks, the cuts are made conscientiously to frame views, connecting the park and city. The ground plane is composed of a large plaza that weaves through the building as an outdoor extension of the fine arts museum, and doubles as a sculpture garden. A second volume forms the library, which occupies the top floors of the edifice. Separating the two programs, a glass-enclosed lobby is analogous to the shoreline dividing Taiwanese mountains from their reflection in the sea. This interstitial zone accommodates circulation and encourages public interaction, while its transparent skin provides unobstructed panoramic creates a connection between the natural and urban context.