NEWS
Feature Story
- Publish Date：2024-12-19
More Than an Architect: Professor Shu-Chang Kung’s Design Warmth and Social Practice
Architect Shu-Chang Kung, Professor at the Graduate Institute of Architecture, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), was awarded the 2024 Golden Pin Design Award for Honorary Award on December 13. (Photo credit: Golden Pin Design Award)
By Chance Lai
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Under the 2024 Golden Pin Design Award spotlight, Shu-Chang Kung, often regarded as the “godfather” of Chinese architecture, held the prestigious “Honorary Award.” With a subtle smile and a profound reflection, he said, “This honor is not mine alone; it belongs to my design team and everyone who believes in the transformative power of design.” For Kung, design has long surpassed the constraints of architectural form — it has become a bridge that connects hearts and drives societal progress.
From Architect to Professor: Design for Society
Kung’s journey in design began with establishing his architecture office, deepened in academia, and ultimately expanded into broader social engagement. His work reshapes the dialogue between people and spaces, transforming design into a unifying societal force.
In 1997, at 35, Kung founded AURA Architects (architecture office), driven by his passion and vision for architecture. His work explored the interplay between architecture and nature, creating profound resonance between structures and their environments. Iconic projects such as the Yilan County Government Center, Pingtung North High School (winner of the 2006 Taiwan Architecture Award and 2007 Far Eastern Architectural Design Award), Hsin Kang Arts High School (2008 Taiwan Architecture Award), and the reception center for the “Qin Jia” development (2008 National Design Award) exemplify his mastery in balancing aesthetics and functionality. Beyond their visual appeal, these designs integrate Taiwan’s local identity with global design languages, showcasing Taiwan’s cultural narrative.
Despite his success, including receiving the Outstanding Architect Award in 2007, Kung made the surprising decision to close his architecture office in 2009 and transition to academia. He joined the Graduate Institute of Architecture at National Chiao Tung University (now part of NYCU), focusing on teaching and research. The move sparked debate — some saw it as a retreat, while others questioned if he had reached his creative peak. Kung, however, viewed it as a bold transformation.
“Architects don’t just build structures; they respond to the needs of society today and tomorrow,” he asserted, his unwavering gaze reflecting his passion for infusing soul into design.
Social Responsibility in Architecture: The “Humanitarian Architecture” Movement and Urban Renewal
At NYCU, Kung expanded his focus from architectural design to social practice. He led the Humanitarian Architecture Movement, blending design with volunteer service. He led students and design teams in underserved areas. He realized impactful projects such as the Hope Medical Center in Nepal and the Bethlehem Early Intervention and Inclusive Education Center in Tainan.
Kung also integrated design thinking into urban planning and cultural governance. His influence extended far beyond architecture. He served as chief consultant for the Taipei World Design Capital project, revitalized traditional neighborhoods like Dadaocheng, transformed industrial heritage sites, and curated large-scale exhibitions like the Taiwan Design Expo and the World Hakka Expo. Projects such as the Open Library and Information Park in Hsinchu’s military villages stand as testaments to his ability to fuse history and community, showcasing design as a tool for societal empowerment.
From Architect to Professor: Design for Society
Kung’s journey in design began with establishing his architecture office, deepened in academia, and ultimately expanded into broader social engagement. His work reshapes the dialogue between people and spaces, transforming design into a unifying societal force.
In 1997, at 35, Kung founded AURA Architects (architecture office), driven by his passion and vision for architecture. His work explored the interplay between architecture and nature, creating profound resonance between structures and their environments. Iconic projects such as the Yilan County Government Center, Pingtung North High School (winner of the 2006 Taiwan Architecture Award and 2007 Far Eastern Architectural Design Award), Hsin Kang Arts High School (2008 Taiwan Architecture Award), and the reception center for the “Qin Jia” development (2008 National Design Award) exemplify his mastery in balancing aesthetics and functionality. Beyond their visual appeal, these designs integrate Taiwan’s local identity with global design languages, showcasing Taiwan’s cultural narrative.
Despite his success, including receiving the Outstanding Architect Award in 2007, Kung made the surprising decision to close his architecture office in 2009 and transition to academia. He joined the Graduate Institute of Architecture at National Chiao Tung University (now part of NYCU), focusing on teaching and research. The move sparked debate — some saw it as a retreat, while others questioned if he had reached his creative peak. Kung, however, viewed it as a bold transformation.
“Architects don’t just build structures; they respond to the needs of society today and tomorrow,” he asserted, his unwavering gaze reflecting his passion for infusing soul into design.
Social Responsibility in Architecture: The “Humanitarian Architecture” Movement and Urban Renewal
At NYCU, Kung expanded his focus from architectural design to social practice. He led the Humanitarian Architecture Movement, blending design with volunteer service. He led students and design teams in underserved areas. He realized impactful projects such as the Hope Medical Center in Nepal and the Bethlehem Early Intervention and Inclusive Education Center in Tainan.
Kung also integrated design thinking into urban planning and cultural governance. His influence extended far beyond architecture. He served as chief consultant for the Taipei World Design Capital project, revitalized traditional neighborhoods like Dadaocheng, transformed industrial heritage sites, and curated large-scale exhibitions like the Taiwan Design Expo and the World Hakka Expo. Projects such as the Open Library and Information Park in Hsinchu’s military villages stand as testaments to his ability to fuse history and community, showcasing design as a tool for societal empowerment.
Kung is more than a mentor for his students — he’s a source of inspiration. At NYCU’s Graduate Institute of Architecture, he guides students in deep explorations of cities, such as a 2023 collaboration with the Chiayi City Government. They broke down barriers and fostered cultural inclusivity through environmental transformation and creative initiatives. A student remarked, “Learning from Professor Kung isn’t just about architecture; it’s about using design to transform cities and society.”
Kung views design as a mechanism beyond constructing spaces — connecting resources and driving societal change. “The core of design is people. What matters to me is whether design can truly transform lives and inspire hope,” he said with quiet determination, his words resonating with immense power.
The Power of Design: Envisioning the Future Between Bricks
Kung’s design philosophy is deeply influenced by Harvard professors Rem Koolhaas and Rafael Moneo and Hans Burger, the founding director of TungHai University’s Department of Architecture. As a student, Kung recalled being struck by the realization that architecture could encompass diverse perspectives — humanities, art, and reflections on the times. “Even though I knew very little back then, I could feel the immense power of architecture,” he said.
“I believe teaching and research allow me to play a more proactive role in academia — not just shaping projects but shaping the values of the next generation of designers,” Kung explained.
In his acceptance speech, Kung quoted the late architect Louis Kahn: “Architecture is made of bricks and stones, each holding its value.” For Kung, this perfectly encapsulates his design philosophy: every brick should be imbued with meaning, collectively forming a force capable of transforming society.
Design as a Commitment and Continuous Dialogue
To Shu-Chang Kung, design is not only a promise to society but also an ongoing dialogue. Starting with architecture, he has extended the influence of design to society, culture, and education. Through cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovation, Kung has opened new horizons for Taiwan’s design industry while writing countless stories of transformation and hope.
Image from: Golden Pin Design Award; Edited by: Office of International Promotion and Outreach, NYCU
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