Houston-based practice MA2 delivers a design concept for the New Taipei City Museum of Art Conceptual Design – International competition based from synergies that are the combination of two or more components to generate a sum of operational parts. Components are generated by fluid models for spatial and functional purposes, but are attached to others to create structure, envelopes, membranes and a diverse range of pieces to construct an architectural body with presence, elegance, and dynamism.
The architectural formation is brought together by a collection of dynamic components and membranes that assemble to create multifunctional surfaces and structures harmonized by fluid patterns inspired by flowing water and air. By using nature as a point of departure, the organization and architectural formation envelopes layers of valiant complexity that give rise to new possibilities. Flowing water has properties which posses various degrees of sensation based on environment and flow intensities. This proposal contains various spaces and intensities with a fluid circulation pattern and structure, inviting the visitor to follow the flow of the building and experience art in various moments of overlapping boundaries.
Air and wind bring to the project influence of lightness and an aerodynamic body of fluid trajectories. Transforming a massive building into a play of fluid forms and moments of lightness is the object behind the proposal. Spaces are lifted up to bring in ventilation and shade, natural light is used to illuminate the interior and provide energy to the south facing facade covered in Photovoltaic Panels. Displaying art within these walls and surfaces enables the viewer to have a consistent reference of natural elements and city presence.
The architectural body contains layers of structure and surfaces constructed from triangulated pieces and octagonal frames. These layers of structure allow for a gradient effect of flowing form and performance. By having such pieces, opportunities develop in which wall, ceiling, and floor can be one. A constant flow of air, water, light, space and tectonics construct energy efficiency by allowing nature to be an active participant in the organizational structure. In addition, the exterior at certain points along the path of walls, have sprinklers to shower mist for evaporative cooling effects. This is placed near the outdoor sculpture garden, entrance lobby and crystalline lounge.