Sun Moon Lake Visitor Center ( 2011's Taiwan Architecture Awards)

Tokyo architects Norihiko Dan and Associates have completed this visitor centre on the shore of Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan.

Sun Moon Lake Administration Office by Norihiko Dan and Associates. Housing the tourist board's offices and an information centre for visitors, the building has a green roof and rises out of the surrounding land towards the lake.

Curved concrete channels lead round the structure towards the lake.

A basin of water between the building and the lake reflects a rippling image of the surrounding trees.

There are two aims in Mr. Norihiko Danmy's concept: First aim was to propose a new model for a relationship between the building and its natural environment while preserving the surrounding scenery and keeping the inland area from becoming dead space.

Second aim was to address the disadvantages of the site whose view of the Sun Moon Lake is not necessarily perfect, and to draw out and amplify the potential advantages.

Sun Moon Lake Administration office of Tourism Bureau is a land-form for dialog between the human being and nature.

(words and photos belongs to dezeen magzine)