Taipei Aquapearl Urban Redevelopment Project
http://2009honorawards.aiaseattle.org/node/176
In January 2008, the Taipei, Taiwan government passed a new plan called “Good Looking Taipei 2010” to encourage developers to make Taipei a beautiful place to live, focusing on improving: public space, pedestrian traffic, infrastructure, indoor common space, iconic community spaces, and sustainability.
Aquapearl, the largest urban redevelopment project planned in Taiwan, is a successful collaboration between developer, architects, Taipei City, and over 300 current property owners all with the common goal of revitalizing the Songjiang District. It will be a world class mixed-use project, setting the standard for future projects in Taiwan. As an iconic symbol that generates excitement and buzz amongst the surrounding neighborhoods, Aquapearl respects the culture by providing a civic identity and a community gathering place that reinvigorates the area.
The major organizing element in the master plan is the Aquapearl Sunken Plaza which accentuates an existing site amenity, the subway connection, by incorporating retail, an outdoor performance stage, and lush landscape gardens at the subway level. The Sunken Plaza transforms an otherwise utilitarian space into an amenity for the entire community.
Aquapearl creates a drastic improvement in the quality of life for the 300 current land owners by providing six luxurious residential towers, ranging from 10 to 25 stories, and a variety of retail and restaurants. The project includes energy and water saving measures through the project’s orientation, lush landscaping, water features, and solar energy. A delicate balance of landscaped public spaces and residential density energizes the entire district.