In terms of visitor numbers, one of the most successful (and in
design terms quite radical) building-repurposing projects of
recent years is Miyahara Ophthalmology (
.
tw
). Built in Taichung’s old downtown for Takekuma Miyahara, a
Japanese-born ophthalmologist, this 1927 red-brick structure long
served as an eye hospital.
By 2008, however, it was in a terrible state due to neglect
compounded by t yphoon s and t r emo r s . Then a l oc a l
confectionery company saw an opportunity, purchased the
structure, and gave it a thorough makeover.
PHOTOGRAPHY: TOP PHOTO GROUP / IMAGE TAIWAN
> FORMER EYE HOSPITAL GETS A NEW
LOOK
3
The facade was cleaned and preserved, but missing corners
were not replaced. Inside, holes in the brickwork that once held
wooden beams were left unfilled. However, the building was
extended upward to make space for a restaurant above small
shops that sell pineapple cakes, tea, and other edible souvenirs. If
one l ook s on l y a t t he s t r e e t - l eve l a r c ade , Mi yaha r a
Ophthalmology resembles an “old street” like that in
Kaohsiung’s Qishan District. But from across the road, its hybrid
personality is obvious.
1
2
1,2
Miyahara Ophthalmology Clinic, Taichung.
3
Pier-2 Art Center, Ka-
ohsiung
.
1,2
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3
৷ඪٙჶɚᖵஔतਜ
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Giant robots, steel sculptures,
and other installation art pieces
make Pier-2 Art Center a photo-
genic destination.
ʈɛʿဝᎉ྅eɽዚኜɛၾ
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ש
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44
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