The Invisible Presence

🎖️Honorable Mention, Design Competition for Presidential Memorial Library, featured in the Taiwan Architect Magazine, Aug 2022 No. 572.

National Competition
Year: 2022 (Year 4)
Team: Hsieh Meng-Ju, Chang Chia-Hsin, Yu He (3)
Location: Taipei, Taiwan
Instructor: Chen Yu-Chin

As the team leader, I primarily focused on Detailed Facade Design, Layout Planning, Modeling and CAD Technical Support

Fluid Commemoration
Exploring the ideologies, core values, and governance of past presidents is instrumental in deepening our understanding of the nation’s evolution. This not only encapsulates the essence of national progress but also offers a comprehensive research platform for political and sociological scholars.
Through the design of the Presidential Memorial Library, I have curated exhibits for each president, ensuring spatial quality while guiding visitors to gain a deeper insight into every leader from 1949 to the present. The articulation of space and the arrangement of circulation pathways aim to invoke reflections on democratic values.

[Crafting a fluid commemorative narrative]
The architectural form extends progressively in cantilevered layers, symbolizing the strength of democracy propelling the nation upwards. Visitors are directed from the sunken plaza into a tranquil garden, then ascend to the tower’s zenith via an elevator, spiraling down through the exhibition spaces. The tower, garden, and plaza together sculpt this flowing commemorative narrative.

[The texture of history, democracy, and commemoration]
We utilized perforated aluminum panels, expanded mesh, and foam aluminum panels in alternating textures, rhythmically appearing within the detached exterior corridors. These abstract textures capture the flow of light and shadow. The deep brown base color adds a touch of solemnity to this process. As one walks through, it feels as though one is moving with the will of historical currents, prompting us to trace back through history and reflect upon the journey of democracy.