Located in the Taichung City Precision Machinery Innovation Park, the Taichung Convention Center Mixed-use Development is set to be a new sustainability icon that aims to be the first LEED® Platinum–certified commercial development in Taiwan.
As the lead consultant, Arup provided an all inclusive integrated design consultancy of this commercial mixed-use complex spreading across 7ha. The complex comprises a convention centre, service centre, a pair of 150m high hotel and office towers and a retail podium.
Project Summary
1st LEED Platinum–certified commercial development in Taiwan
48%less energy is required.
Inspired by the mathematical 'Klein bottle', the convention centre is highly recognisable with its aerodynamic form while allowing for optimised ventilation around the building onto the public plaza.
Sustainability
With Arup's integrated approach, sustainability was embedded from the very beginning and served as one of the major drivers during the design process. Across the entire development, a number of active sustainable design strategies have been incorporated including wind turbines, photovoltaic panels and solar thermal energy. Numerous passive design features such as natural ventilation, natural light, and a performance hybrid building façade will be adopted. Anticipated overall energy demand is reduced by about 48%.
At the masterplan level, the positioning of all buildings were carefully considered together with prevailing wind direction in allowing summer breeze into the plaza, creating a fantastic microclimate. All water will be collected and recycled in response to the water shortage problems in Taichung. With extensive green roofs, terraces, atria and vegetation, the site will become the largest green commercial hub in the region.
Seismic design
Given Taiwan's seismic activity, the office and hotel towers utilise a ductile reinforced concrete core and special cost-effective, seismic resistant moment frames. The space between the buildings will serve as an urban plaza for the public, large enough to accommodate exhibitions, performances, fashion shows and other special events.
The notion of sustainable design goes beyond the environment, contributing to the sustainability of society and the economy. With a wide array of amenities designed with optimum flexibility, Taichung Convention Center Mixed-use Development is expected to generate an economic buzz – the 'Taichung effect'.