aeeble

Incorporating the concept of "organic architecture" into the design of the Longgang Library, architect C.T. Liu (CTLU Architect & Associates) aimed to evoke urban dwellers' longing for nature through elements such as wind, light, water, and greenery. The idea of returning daily life to a natural rhythm becomes apparent while strolling along Section 4 of Zhongshan East Road, passing the tunnels formed by intertwined banyan trees and the emerald-green slopes of Taimeigo Park. This library, acclaimed as the "most beautiful in Taiwan," features a minimalist exterior resembling a giant tome with extensive white-walled surfaces, creating a museum-like visual aesthetic. Visitors step into an artistic feast before even entering the imaginative world built upon words. Stepping into the library’s grand hall, one’s gaze cannot help but be drawn to the intersecting curves under an 8-meter-high ceiling and the abundant use of natural wooden materials within the space. Unconsciously, footsteps slow down, allowing for a peaceful, tree-like reading experience beneath the structure. Multilingual conversation guides in Burmese, Thai, and Vietnamese line the spiral staircase, adding engaging fun to the ascent while showcasing the region's diverse ethnic culture. On the second floor, the Children’s Reading Area extends the natural ambiance through cedar and oak wood, while its fluid seating design adds playful vitality, encouraging readers of all ages to ignite their imagination and enter fantasy realms filled with literature. A dedicated Children’s Story Space is also planned to offer a comfortable co-reading environment for families. Floors three and four serve as the library’s primary book collections and study areas, respectively. Compared to the playful architectural expressions of the second floor, these levels convey a serene intellectual charm by blending natural wood textures with exposed concrete elements. The expansive window design blurs the boundary between the building and the surrounding greenery, while ample natural light ensures every corner is ideal for reading. Beyond emphasizing interactive space design with the surrounding environment, the library incorporates diverse green building elements such as a rainwater recycling system and solar panels, earning it a Diamond-level Green Building Certification.