Gasea: A Cliff House Merging Architecture with Nature

Architect Keng-Fu Lo's Award-Winning Design Inspired by Taiwan's East Coast

The Gasea design was inspired by the west side of the coast's ridgeline. Keng-Fu Lo transformed these layers into a plane, redeveloped it, and finally created an organic architectural design. The original soil retaining wall defines the boundary. With a focus on eco-protection, the design emphasizes the arrangement of space, and the organic curve, which is close to nature, is chosen as the prototype for the architecture.

What sets Gasea apart is its strategic location and thoughtful design. Facing the Pacific cliff on the east, the architecture offers a stunning sea view. The west side is flanked by coastal mountains, which means the sunshine becomes weak after 3 pm. To counter this, the facades of the building use different types of glass, and trees are planted in the building-related position to maximize light penetration and create a natural visual connection.

The architecture is located on the east coast of Taiwan. The north side is the short side of the architecture and plants extend to the roof by following the slope. This design blocks the cold wind. A lot of trees are planted in the interior of the building in consideration of the amount of sunshine. The second floor is designed by the idea of overlooking, which expresses geometric shape. Two floors are connected by a large atrium space indoor to challenge the regular outlook and closed floors of modern architecture.

The Gasea design covers a space of 1230 sq. m. The main body of the building is built by RC concrete structure and steel structure; the metal materials are mainly Aluminum. The iron materials are used inside to enhance the strength of the structure, corresponding to the typhoon and the northeast monsoon, and the powder coating is used outside to resist the corrosion from sea breeze.

One of the challenges in designing Gasea was to achieve light transmission and privacy, and to increase the connection and visibility between indoor and outdoor. This was achieved through the use of U-shaped glass and fixed glass. The opening window provides ventilation, allowing residents to feel the lighting changes. The roof uses a sto waterproof insulation system, by a 10 cm insulation layer, the average roof heat transfer rate can be reduced, and with a zinco roof green waterproofing system to increase the green area and use plants to regulate the climate.

In conclusion, Keng-Fu Lo's Gasea is a remarkable architectural design that not only offers a unique living experience but also respects and integrates with the natural environment. It is a testament to the possibilities of innovative design and a worthy winner of the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award.