Shih Chien University Gymnasium and Library_Education_Projects | KRIS YAO｜ARTECH

Continuing the success of the College of Design building also designed by Artech, the Shih Chien University decided to bring the two most important public spaces on the campus — the gymnasium and the library — to a grander scale and to form a green new quad as the second gateway for the campus. The two buildings are joined together by a subterranean passageway that serves as a cultural/conference center. Though one is a space of silence while the other is a space for dynamic activities, their spatial fluidity and openness are both the catalysts to promote interpersonal interaction and eliminate barriers.

The building materials used were chosen to blend in with the overall data-style of the campus. For the gymnasium, stainless steel mesh and architectural concrete demarcate the hollow and the solid, differentiating between the attributes of the large and small gym spaces. The mesh and vertical louvers of the library’s façade reflect the materials used for the gymnasium, while acting as sun shading device. In the central quad there are irregularly shaped light wells extending down to the underground level, providing improved lighting for more versatile use.