Forest Village: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Chih-Feng Lin and Chia-Fu Hsu's Exhibit Center Celebrates Local Craftsmanship

The Exhibit Center, completed in June 2018, covers an area of 264 square meters. It is located near the Qingshui Zushi Temple, a historical landmark. The designers aimed to recall the former glory of the region and pass down its essence through this project. The center is adorned with wooden grating fences and cane sliding doors that provide a soft and smooth touch, enhancing the overall ambiance of the rooms. Natural burlap lanterns and cane pendant lamps suspended from the ceiling further accentuate the beauty of craftsmanship and emit gentle lights.

One of the unique features of the Exhibit Center is the extensive use of untreated rattan materials. These materials are prone to damage from sunlight, rain, and frost, which can make them brittle or rotten. To overcome this challenge, the designers applied a thin coat of treatment oil to the rattan materials, repeating the process as many times as necessary to provide a perfect finish. This treatment prevents damage from direct sunlight exposure, moisture, and other risks posed by the natural environment.

The Exhibit Center's design also incorporates a large roof window and French windows. These architectural elements bring in views and allow light to flood into the lobby and reception rooms, creating a sense of depth. Gray and beige decorations with fine textures enrich the color planning of the space, while black iron pipes complete the terminal views as a visual focus in modern style.

The Exhibit Center is not just a testament to the aesthetic appeal of traditional craftsmanship, but also a demonstration of innovative design solutions. It was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019, a prestigious accolade that recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation.

Forest Village is a perfect example of how designers can blend tradition and innovation to create spaces that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It serves as a reminder of the region's cultural heritage while showcasing the beauty of workmanship and the potential of natural materials.