The Tie-Ma Cycling Station in Taitung, Taiwan, represents a thoughtful integration of architectural design with its natural surroundings. Created by Studio APL and Lin Ko-Fang Architects, this public facility, affectionately dubbed a 'lotus garden', provides a serene haven for cyclists navigating the East Rift Valley. The design ingeniously repurposes materials found on-site, transforming stones unearthed during construction into permeable gabion walls. Steel is artfully shaped into organic canopies, mimicking natural forms. This innovative approach seamlessly blends the cycling station with the Dapo Pond wetland ecosystem, acting as a gentle bridge rather than a barrier between human activity and the environment.
Drawing inspiration from the local cultural term 'Tie-Ma' for bicycles, the station's design reflects a deep respect for the area's ecological sensitivity, particularly its location near the pond's main outlet and expansive rice fields. Instead of imposing a rigid structure, the architects envisioned an ecological settlement that adapts and extends from the landscape. The building’s low profile and dark columns are designed to merge with the surrounding trees, creating an appearance of an animal at rest within a forest. The metal canopies, with their arched, hydrophobic curves resembling leaves, offer ample shade and direct rainwater into a collection system, enhancing the site's hydrological resilience. Gaps in the 'leaves' allow sunlight to filter through, casting dynamic patterns that evoke a forest canopy. The project adheres to a strict 'zero-waste' earthwork policy, utilizing all excavated stones for the wash station's gabion walls, which contrast with the lightness of the steel roof. Stainless steel mirrors on partition walls further dissolve the structure into its verdant context.
Currently in its initial phase, which was finalized in July 2024 with the completion of the reception hall, the Tie-Ma Cycling Station is designed as a dynamic, integrated landscape system. The subsequent phase, now underway, will introduce a bicycle pavilion and a multifunctional center for exhibitions and refreshments, alongside accessible waterfront areas. These two phases will together form a cohesive public space along the water's edge. Through the use of carbon-reducing materials, resilient design principles, and strategies for ecological harmony, the station transforms a mere transit point into a vibrant public space that promotes daily engagement, learning, and an appreciation for nature, ultimately serving as a sustainable amenity for Chishang Township.
This pioneering project serves as an inspiring example of how architectural innovation can not only meet practical needs but also enhance environmental stewardship. It demonstrates a profound commitment to sustainability and community well-being, fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world. By blending seamlessly with its ecosystem, the Tie-Ma Cycling Station champions a future where built environments contribute positively to ecological balance and inspire a more harmonious way of living.