Taipei: National Taiwan University's (NTU) Humanities Building, which has taken 19 years to plan, design and construct, has been awarded the top prize at the 2024 Taiwan Architecture Awards in Taipei. The NTU building stood out because its outstanding design carefully considered the surrounding environment, architect Chen Liang-chuan, who headed the jury, said at a press conference earlier this week. According to Focus Taiwan, Chen expressed admiration for Chien Architects and Associates, the firm responsible for the project, for their persistence in delivering 16 design proposals over the past 19 years. Chien Architects founder Chien Hsueh-yi mentioned that a significant challenge was designing a structure that would harmonize with NTU's signature landscape. To address this, the firm created underground spaces on two lower floors for academics and students, allowing the building above ground to blend seamlessly with the surrounding three-story buildings. The initial proposal for the Humanities Building fac ed criticism due to plans to demolish three buildings known as "Holey Halls"-the Agricultural Exhibition Hall and two neighboring structures. Ultimately, the Agricultural Exhibition Hall, designed by architect Chang Chao-kang, was preserved for its unique design and designated a cultural heritage landmark in 2007, while the other two buildings were dismantled in 2010. Meanwhile, three projects received merit awards, including a rejuvenation project by OASIStudio on the Matsu Islands, Taiwan Power Co.'s wooden office buildings at the Wanta Hydropower Plant, and Jiaoxi Elementary School's sports field and underground parking. The inaugural Emerging Architect Award was bestowed upon the Naluwan Community Center in Hsinchu City, chosen for its design by architect Lin Bo-yang. Lin emphasized that the project focused on creating usable spaces for residents rather than the building itself. Additionally, Chung Yuan Christian University's Chang Ching Yu Memorial Library was honored with the Taiwan Architecture 25-Ye ar-Old Award for its timeless design and well-maintained structure. Architect Wang Chiu-hwa's innovative approach to library design, emphasizing open spaces for users, has had a lasting impact on library architecture in Taiwan. The Taiwan Architecture Awards ceremony, accompanied by a forum on architecture and sustainability, will be held in Taipei on Dec. 14 as part of Architects' Day celebrations. A cash prize of NT$1 million (US$31,007) will be awarded to individuals or entities involved in the top award-winning projects, including designers, construction supervisors, and the contractor, as organized by Taiwan Architect magazine in collaboration with the National Association of Architects, R.O.C. (Taiwan).
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