River of Light

A Delicate Landscape Design by Hsu Fu Chu

The River of Light, a landscape design by Hsu Fu Chu, is a stunning example of how art and nature can come together to transform a space. Inspired by the beauty of flowing water and the tranquility of green surroundings, this design creates a unique and captivating experience for residents and visitors alike.

What sets the River of Light apart is its use of curve strip patterns, which serve as the theme of the space design. These delicate layers of flowing space completely remodel the previous dull backyard of the residential community, turning it into a convoluted water and green oasis. The original small area has been transformed into a smooth and intriguing space, inviting people to explore and relax.

The realization of this design required complex curved reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Customized molds and rebars were used to achieve the explicit shapes of the curves. Some rebars had to be remodeled on-site to ensure the structural integrity of the design. The pouring of concrete had to be done with precision, taking into account the different heights of the walls and avoiding cold joints.

Research played a crucial role in the development of the River of Light. The side yard of the congregate housing, primarily used as a walk path, served as inspiration for the green space in this design. Native perennial plants were carefully selected and planted, creating a diverse and evergreen landscape. The changing colors and species of the plants throughout the seasons add an artistic touch to the design, enhancing the overall experience.

One of the main challenges faced during the creation of the River of Light was capturing the infinite changes of light. The design successfully incorporates natural sunlight during the day and strategically placed illuminations at night, showcasing the different charms of the space. The flowing light symbolizes the passage of time and the sustainable movement of life.

The River of Light has been recognized for its excellence and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in Landscape Planning and Garden Design in 2020. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate outstanding resourcefulness and authenticity, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. The River of Light not only showcases strong technical and creative skills but also contributes to the improvement of quality of life, making the world a better place.