Gateway Park: A Landmark Design by Catherine Mosbach

Exploring the Intersection of Nature and Technology

Gateway Park, designed by Catherine Mosbach, is a groundbreaking project that combines the elements of nature and technology to create a one-of-a-kind landmark in Taichung. The park's design is inspired by the parameters of soil, topography, rainwater, shadow, water retention, and pollution, which determine the typologies of landscapes suitable for leisure activities.

Mosbach's design explores the concept of lithosphere design, where water, topography, and soil combine with atmospheric parameters such as heat, humidity, and pollution. This overlapping mapping organizes "niches" where natural and artificial installations initiate resorts of well-being. The park's atmosphere qualities are emphasized by the lithosphere resources, creating a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

One of the standout features of Gateway Park is the topographic movement that develops a smooth continuity and plays with rainwater as a land morphing linked to the monsoon season. This creates ponds and lakes on several hectares, giving visitors the sensation of walking over the ocean or in the middle of large meadows, depending on the weather forecast.

The park is divided into different sections, including play lands, leisure lands, and sport lands, each offering a variety of activities and amenities. The design team, which includes Mosbach paysagistes, Philippe Rahm, and Ricky Liu associates, carefully planned the distribution of these areas to ensure a seamless flow and optimal user experience.

Gateway Park is not just a static design; it is a living and evolving entity. The park's growth and the power of the plants in the tropical humid climate of Taichung present a challenge for the gardeners. They need to find guidelines to control the rapid growth and maintain the park's efficient content.

The construction of Gateway Park began in January 2014 and was completed in 2017. The project has received several prestigious awards, including the Iconic Award category Concept of the Year by the German Design Council in 2014 and the Emilio Ambasz award for green architecture in the Gateway Park AIQ Project of the Year competition in Tel Aviv in 2016.

Gateway Park is a testament to the power of innovative design and the harmonious integration of nature and technology. It offers visitors a unique and immersive experience, where they can enjoy the benefits of well-being in the open air.