The arrangement of stacked volumes is carefully configured to allow light penetration deep within the project, frame generous outdoor spaces, create a series of green roof terraces, generate a wide variety of spatial conditions and provide 360 degree views of the park and surrounding area. The asymmetrical arrangement of volumes creates a unique silhouette from every direction, allowing it to serve as a major landmark by which people can orient themselves within the city. Its large cantilevers enhance its presence, creating a powerful focal point and cultural landmark for the city of Taichung.
The standardized “blocks”(16 x 76 x 15m), consist of prefabricated steel components in a multi-floor truss configuration. The robust structure allows for large cantilevers and column free floors. The continuous interiors provide flexible space for exhibitions and uninterrupted reading areas. Cross laminated timber slabs and beams offer large spans with a very low carbon foot-print. As a low energy, carbon neutral and renewable solution, the wood elements greatly contribute to the high level of sustainability achieved by the project.
The intelligent skin actively adapts to views, solar exposure and daylighting requirements through the responsive distribution of solid aluminum panels, low-e coated glass, frosted/fritted glass and sweating skin panels. Not only does the skin cool and protect the building from intense solar gain in areas where it is needed most, but also organically dissolves and glitters like a shedding skin with the movement of the sun.