The Next 40 Years: A Sustainable Office Design by Szu Hsin Cheng

Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future

Szu Hsin Cheng, a renowned designer, has transformed a 40-year-old building in Taiwan Taichung into a studio space that exemplifies the principles of sustainability and environmental consciousness. The project, aptly named "The Next 40 Years," not only breathes new life into the old structure but also fosters a sense of community and connection.

The inspiration for this design came from the desire to create a natural and friendly space in an urban corner. Cheng utilized large pieces of natural stone material for the building's facade, incorporating elements such as trees, flowers, and plants. By doing so, the designer aimed to reinterpret the memories and essence of the past, while giving the urban corner a fresh and inviting appearance. The concept of open sharing is also expressed through the design, promoting a sense of inclusivity and collaboration.

What sets this office design apart is its commitment to sustainability. Cheng prioritized the preservation of existing site vegetation, ensuring minimal waste and material efficiency. For example, recycled granite materials were used for outdoor pavement, and recycled tiles were repurposed as stair platforms. The second-floor conference room preserves the original building frame and incorporates a wall of books made from cabinet volumes. Additionally, onsite Taiwan incense cedar was utilized as indoor office decor, adding a touch of history and culture to the space.

The realization of this design involved careful consideration of the building's interaction with its surroundings. Cheng removed old walls and incorporated grilles to create a multi-layered and dialysis-like interaction between the architectural appearance and natural landscape. The stair steps, cut from the original stone, were repurposed to place natural elements throughout the city, offering visitors a unique experience as they ascend the stairs.

With an indoor area of approximately 207 square meters, "The Next 40 Years" provides a functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace. The design team, which includes Szu Hsin Cheng, Ting Che Kao, Ruei Jeng Wei, Ruei Hong Yuan, and Cheng-Ta Hsieh, successfully balanced the old and the new, integrating them harmoniously to create an architectural appearance that is both charming and comfortable.

This exceptional design has garnered recognition and accolades. "The Next 40 Years" was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2020 in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life.

Szu Hsin Cheng's "The Next 40 Years" is a testament to the power of sustainable design and the importance of preserving our architectural heritage. By embracing the past and looking towards the future, this office design serves as a model for creating spaces that are not only visually stunning but also environmentally conscious and community-oriented.