The Taichung City Cultural Center | MenoMenoPiu Architects & Atelier Castro Denissof

 The Taichung City Cultural Center a design proposal by MenoMenoPiu Architects & Atelier Castro Denissof creates a transitional, urban boundary that combines two programmatic elements to form a unique perspective experience. The amalgamation of the two programs creates a vast opening of about 200 m that than becomes an entrance for the Taichung Getaway Park. As soon as one enters through the entrance they are immediately introduced and greeted by masses of the cultural central literally right above their heads, allowing them to view where the structural landscape merges and encompasses the natural environment. The opening of the cultural center acquires a welcoming aura that invites the public from nearby exhibitions and convention centers.

Heavier programmatic elements are located towards the east part of the site which diminishes the excess noise from the wave pool.  Even the pavement of the plaza illustrates a kind of the conceptual idea behind the projects, using a scattering technique where green beds intertwine with the structure. Ventilations nodes also allow air to be filtered into the surrounding. The project also utilizes the beneficial qualities of wind power, where the design incorporates wind turbines that can potential acquire approximately 40% of the overall energy the building consumes. The building also incorporates shading devices that are covered with photovoltaic cells that assist in maximizing the amount of energy stored.

The northern wall also acts as a shield, using a material such as concrete fortified with titanium oxide which helps protects and eliminate the park from containments and pollutions from vehicles. Majority of the roof will be green, often with aromatic plants to provide sensational experience. The building also focuses on the concept of natural ventilation and the use of wind suction to ensure that the air which enters that building remains clean. Nature plays an immense role in implementing unique levels of interaction throughout the center.

By Amal Dirie