Situated in the port city of Kaohsiung in southern Taiwan, near the mouth of the Ai River, this project embraces its unique maritime environment. Water is the lifeblood of Taiwanese culture here—economically, thanks to Taiwan’s largest port; urbanistically, with the Love River dividing the city; and environmentally, with humidity ranging between 60% and 80%. The Pop Music Center emerges as a geometric landscape inspired by the sea. Elements such as foam, coral, seaweed, waves, and aquatic creatures are thoughtfully arranged on its surfaces, each serving a distinct function. Every structure expresses its own character and formal innovation, while collectively integrating into a cohesive ecosystem.
The collaboration between the City Council, the Ministry of Culture, and the Taiwan government has culminated in the creation of this cultural landmark dedicated to popular music. The pop music industry holds a strong cultural identity within this region of Asia. Taiwan’s history and geopolitical context have fostered a distinctive style where diverse cultural elements coexist, with local traditions gaining increasing prominence. The project reflects this blend by weaving tradition into iconic architecture while offering a flexible design that adapts not only to programmatic needs but also to the evolving cultural practices of its users.
The Kaohsiung Pop Music Center comprises a dynamic architectural ecosystem, including:
- Big Wave: An outdoor auditorium seating 12,000 people, a music hall with a capacity of 3,500, and two towers housing offices, museums, and rehearsal studios.
- The Whale: Six live rooms designed for events, concerts, and speeches.
- The Dolphin: Five restaurants linked by a pedestrian walkway.
- Coral (Exhibition): An exhibition center coupled with an outdoor multifunctional space.
- A network of parks and pedestrian paths seamlessly connecting the entire site.
The design thoughtfully responds to the program requirements while encouraging spontaneous activities during non-event times. The architecture embraces its interior spaces and extends outward, creating versatile social gathering areas for visitors.
Project Drawings
Project Information
Architectural Design: Manuel A. Monteserín Lahoz
Project Year: 2021
Photographers: Yi Hyeen Lee, Chien Ming Chen, Ian Choi, Chen Hung, Su, Bo An, Kano Chang, Yu Zhi Lin
Lead Architect: Manuel A. Monteserín Lahoz
Architects: Beatriz Pachón Castrillo, Javier Simó de Pedro
Local Partner: Mark Ongg
Partner and Project Management: EDDEA
Principal: Kaohsiung City Government
Location: Taiwan, China
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up