TTIA Terminal 1 tops Taiwan architecture awards

2014-11-12

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport’s redeveloped Terminal One project is top winner of the 2014 Taiwan Architecture Awards, according to event organizer Taiwan Architect Magazine Nov. 10.

“The project’s ingenious use of an existing outdoor platform on the third floor is impressive,” an awards judge said. “The steel lattice greatly enhances the structure and creates a roomier environment without sacrificing floor space.”

Inspired by the wings of a bird in flight, the design incorporates the concept of the traditional high roof often seen in Asian architecture, the judge said. “Such an approach instills a real sense of grandeur to Taiwan’s main gateway with the world.”

Designed by Japanese architect Norihiko Dan, who bagged top prize in the same awards three years ago, the NT$2.76 billion (US$90 million) project started in 2004 and took nine years to complete. Since January this year, the terminal has served more than 11.9 million visitors.

“This honor belongs to the architects and the entire staff responsible for the daily operations of the facility,” a TTIA representative said.

The project was also highly commended for its green credentials, delivering 95 percent and 90 percent reductions in related project costs and carbon emissions, respectively.

According to the organizers, the project was one of 10 finalists selected from 208 entries. Taiwan Railways Administration’s Miaoli Station and Caoling Ecogeo Elementary School in Yunlin County also earned honor mention awards.

First presented in 1979, the awards aim to spur greater creativity within the architectural profession.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=223872&CtNode=413)