Serenity Multifunctional Cultural Venue

The word "tranquility" is used to express the theme of the park, and the power, rhythm and momentum of calligraphy are used to flow through the space, presenting the field characteristics of "perseverance, tranquility and transcendence". We use the power, rhythm and momentum of calligraphy written in light ink to shape the space, add color and material texture, and show the combination of context, culture and transcendence into the museum, conveying gentlemanliness, solidity and sustainability.

This project, the first presidential library, is dedicated to studying the nation's head of state and their original spatial-temporal context, transforming it into a spatial atmosphere. Through abstract aesthetic expression, it reinterprets the conventional architectural image. Emphasizing authenticity and simplicity in material selection and integrating natural elements such as light and shadow, it creates a poetic ambiance that resonates deeply with people.

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"Serenity" aims to create a tranquil environment that integrates the functions of a museum with a global digital library of Sinology, infused with metaphysical philosophical thinking. The design is inspired by the calligrapher Tong Yang-Tze and architect Kris Yao. Through the interplay of light and shadow, materials, and spatial rhythm, the project transforms three classic brushstroke techniques from Chinese calligraphy—dense ink, shading, and flying white—interpreting their strength and rhythm to convey the spiritual essence of the space. “Dense ink” is embodied through the use of stacked granite in the archive, evoking a grounded, solid presence. “Shading” finds form in the flowing, cloud-like veining of Carrara white marble on the exhibition hall’s main wall, as well as in the softly layered ceiling grids that diffuse light and create atmospheric depth. “Flying white,” characterized by intentional lightness and emptiness, inspires the design of the atrium and second-floor open areas, where voids invite natural light to animate the shifting balance between openness and enclosure. By abstracting these calligraphic gestures into spatial language, the project offers more than a visual experience—it becomes a contemplative journey. The interplay of solidity and subtlety, fullness and absence, material and immaterial, reflects both aesthetic intention and philosophical depth. The result is a space that transcends conventional boundaries, resonating with resilience, serenity, and transcendence.

Balancing the historical grandeur of the Forbidden City's ancient lecture halls with contemporary sustainability required a synthesis of form and ideology. We embraced traditional Eastern aesthetics—such as timber textures, bronze panels, and whitewashed walls—while ensuring that every design element met modern green building standards. For instance, the wood-like patterns on the ceiling evoke classical architecture yet integrate seamlessly with advanced acoustic panels and intelligent lighting systems. The furniture and spatial layout were designed to be modular and flexible, supporting contemporary functions without compromising cultural ambiance. By grounding every design decision in both historical reverence and ecological mindfulness, we preserved authenticity while creating a space that is future-ready.

The central courtyard was conceived as the “breathing heart” of the venue—a shared, contemplative core where paths of research and general visitation diverge. This spatial distinction emerged from our desire to respect the differing rhythms of study and leisure. Scholars require quietude and focus, while general visitors benefit from more fluid and exploratory circulation. The courtyard's open layout, framed by corridors and transparent walls, visually and physically delineates these flows while remaining inclusive. Inspired by Chinese garden philosophy, it also becomes a symbolic axis that harmonizes activity and stillness, academic pursuit and public interaction.