A Cross-Disciplinary Interpretation of Commercial Space
"Through similarities and differences, new knowledge and vitality emerge."
What defines the ideal workplace? Is it simply about maximizing productivity? Or should it go beyond work itself—breaking down interpersonal barriers to foster the flow of knowledge, ideas, and shared value?
When the balance between work and life must be reimagined, how should architecture respond?
Around expansive office and service spaces, a variety of green spaces are integrated at different scales. These soften the work atmosphere, allowing nature to weave into daily routines. In response to the varying conditions of the south, west, and north orientations, the design develops tailored daylighting and ventilation strategies. On the south side, staggered deep balconies not only provide shading and outdoor respite but also create layered encounters with different parts of the tree canopy. On the west side, low-set windows preserve outward views while hedges block the harsh afternoon sun. On the north side, expansive glazing brings in steady, glare-free daylight throughout the day.
Modern workplaces demand more than air, light, and greenery. In industries built on intensive specialization, individuals often feel compressed—minuscule, yet carrying immense pressure. To respond, a curved wall is introduced along the circulation leading to service areas. This gesture instantly shifts space and time, offering a momentary retreat. Here, one can step away from work, pause, and breathe—finding a narrow seam of relief in the day.
A Nook not only addresses the functional needs of its tenants, but also opens new possibilities for how people gather and connect. On the ground floor, its flexible layout accommodates everything from performance celebrations to industry forums and cross-regional meetings. The Event Space (Rippling) transforms A Nook into a versatile communal venue, with parts of the building deliberately opened to the public. Here, art, exhibitions, and performances take place—breaking down the external walls not just passively, but through active creation of new encounters. In doing so, A Nook fosters emotional resonance and flow between people, neighbors, and the surrounding city.
- Client: Private
- Design Team: ProtoPlain Architects
- Architect: Yu-Hsin Yeh
- Team Members: Ping-Cheng Hsieh, Tieng-Yu Kuo
- Structural Design: Wei-Chieh Wang Structural Engineering Office
- MEP Design: Sun Design Co., Ltd.
- Interior Design: ProtoPlain Tectonic Construction Engineering Co., Ltd.
- Landscape Design: ProtoPlain Tectonic Construction Engineering Co., Ltd.
- Construction Team: Bao Xiang Construction
- Architectural Photography: ProtoPlain Architects
- Location: No. 49, Jianguo Road, West District, Taichung City
- Site Area: 295 m2
- Building Coverage: 184.61 m2
- Total Floor Area: 1557.73 m2
- Floors: 7 above ground, 1 basement
- Design Period: Mar 2014 – Jan 2015
- Construction Period: Aug 2017