National Taiwan University’s (NTU) Humanities Building has secured the top honor at the 2024 Taiwan Architecture Awards. The building, designed by Chien Architects & Associates, stood out for its thoughtful consideration of the surrounding environment.
“It’s outstanding because of its careful design,” said Architect Chen Liang-chuan, Jury head. “The firm persisted in delivering 16 design proposals over 19 years.”
Chien Hsueh-yi, Founder, Chien Architects, highlighted the challenge of preserving NTU’s signature landscape. To address this, the firm created underground spaces, ensuring the above-ground structure blended with neighboring buildings.
The project initially faced criticism for planning to demolish three historic buildings, including the Agricultural Exhibition Hall. However, the hall was preserved and designated a cultural heritage landmark in 2007.
Other winners included OASIStudio’s ongoing project to rejuvenate a former military stronghold on the Matsu Islands, Taiwan Power Co.’s wooden office buildings at its Wanta Hydropower Plant in Nantou County, and Jiaoxi Elementary School’s sports field and underground parking in Yilan County, which all received Merit Awards. The Naluwan Community Center in Hsinchu City, designed by Lin Bo-yang, took home the Emerging Architect Award for its simple design that successfully incorporated the multipurpose facility into its surroundings. Meanwhile, Chung Yuan Christian University’s Chang Ching Yu Memorial Library in Taoyuan, designed by Wang Chiu-hwa, was honored with the Taiwan Architecture 25-Year-Old Award for its timeless design.
The awards ceremony will take place on December 14, with a forum on architecture and sustainability.
Image courtesy: foucustaiwan.tw