Revolutionizing Beauty Production: The Jolab Factory

Chih-Kang Chu and Yao-Chou Yu's Award-Winning Design Transforms a Factory into an Art Gallery

The inspiration for the design came from the idea that beauty is art. The designers wanted to ensure that employees of JOLA, a cosmetics label, felt that they were creating art rather than just producing commodities. To achieve this, they designed the factory to resemble an art gallery, complete with a double-tier garden and unique art performances.

One of the unique features of the design is the use of space. Despite the high ceilings and limited floor area, the designers were able to create a space where the production process, R&D Center, and achievement display area are presented like artworks. The factory also includes a hanging garden and aerial walkways, allowing visitors to overlook the production work in the cleanroom.

The design also took into consideration the hot weather in Kaohsiung, where the factory is located. The path of the sun was calculated to keep the windows out of direct sunlight as much as possible, and heat-resistant material was used for the wall surface. Additionally, double-layer glass was used to insulate the heat and prevent fogging due to temperature differences.

The designers faced several challenges during the design process, including redefining a beauty factory and creating a visiting route in the absence of space. However, they were able to overcome these challenges and create a design that not only serves its functional purpose but also enhances the sense of honor among employees and allows visitors to see JOLA's entrepreneurial spirit and ambition.

The Jolab Factory is a testament to the power of innovative design in transforming a space and redefining its purpose. It serves as a reminder that beauty is indeed art, and that even in a factory, it is possible to create a space that inspires and engages.