Hsichih Mazu Temple: A Modern Interpretation of Traditional Taiwanese Temple Architecture

Breaking Tradition with a Contemporary Twist

The inspiration behind the Hsichih Mazu Temple lies in the concept of light. Yullin Wang, the chief designer, explains that the temple symbolizes Goddess Mazu as a soothing light of faith, akin to a beacon guiding ships in the vast ocean. The cantilevered observation deck on the roof, designed in the shape of a boat, represents the intention of Goddess Mazu crossing the sea.

What sets this project apart is its departure from traditional temple architecture. While retaining the essence of a temple, the Hsichih Mazu Temple reinterprets its form with an orientalist approach, incorporating elements of vertical development found in Gothic architecture. This fusion of Eastern and Western influences creates a truly unique and captivating design.

One of the notable features of the temple is its use of architectural concrete for the exterior. This choice was made to ensure the longevity of the building, which is planned to stand for over 1,000 years. Additionally, the temple's location in a rainy and humid city necessitated a durable and weather-resistant material.

The realization of the Hsichih Mazu Temple required advanced construction techniques. To achieve the perfect exterior curves, a metal structure was concealed within the glass wall at the front of the building. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the metal structure remains invisible from the outside, while the upward curve angle creates a smile-like expression, adding a touch of warmth to the design.

The technical specifications of the temple are equally impressive. With a base area of 990 square meters and a height of 45 meters, the building stands tall, almost 15 stories high. The outer walls are made of architectural concrete, while other structures utilize stone, cement, reinforced concrete, and steel, weighing a total of 7,000 pounds.

The Hsichih Mazu Temple is more than just a physical structure; it is an immersive experience. The design team transformed the concept of flying eaves into a swallowtail shape, combining the lines of waves and the form of a boat. This interpretation symbolizes Goddess Mazu's journey to Taiwan across the ocean, safeguarding the sea and its people. The cantilever design of the roof observation deck, resembling a ship's hull, allows visitors to feel as if they are floating on a ship, surrounded by the imagery of waves.

Located in Xizhi district of New Taipei City, the Hsichih Mazu Temple project began in April 2019 and is scheduled for completion in June 2024. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted to ensure the temple's cultural and artistic significance. The design team studied various religious architectures from both Eastern and Western traditions, collecting different faith cultures and exploring different spatial presentations.

The creation of the Hsichih Mazu Temple was not without its challenges. Traditional Taiwanese temple architecture is known for its complexity and ornate appearance, with elements such as swallow-tailed roofs and large carved dragon pillars. Balancing the traditional and modern creative spirit was a delicate task, but the design proposal was approved by Goddess Mazu and the believers through an arduous religious procedure.

The Hsichih Mazu Temple represents a departure from the traditional framework of temples. It embraces light as its core concept, incorporating local humanities, geography, and culture. By combining the oriental style of calligraphy with Western Gothic architecture, the temple reinterprets traditional symbols and elements in a minimalist form, replacing the tangible with the intangible. It is a testament to the harmonious fusion of art, architecture, and religious sanctuary.

The Hsichih Mazu Temple has already garnered recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Cultural Heritage and Culture Industry Design category in 2022. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity, technical skill, and contributions to improving the quality of life.

With its innovative design, cultural significance, and commitment to sustainability, the Hsichih Mazu Temple is set to become an architectural masterpiece that transcends time and inspires generations to come.