Statement

    After deciding architecture as my future career, I have researched various places and universities. Among them, Manchester School of Architecture is the best fit to me. I like that the university focuses on the "role of the humanities in the design process". I believe that architects should value people who are using the building and their welfare first before the building itself. Because every human is subtle and intrinsic, it is essential to have a deep understanding of humanity in order to create suitable designs for them. Additionally, my design principle corresponds to yours -- "imaginative, integrative, and inclusive". Paramountly, I found an interest in class about "thinking as a designer" that is offered to the 1st grade. Hence, I can build a fundamental thinking process in designing. Besides courses, I'm delighted for opportunities to study in two distinct institutions. Excess access to technological equipment, material, and workshops will enhance my education.

    I'm greatly impressed by the National Taichung Theater -- a place to watch artwork but a piece of artwork in itself. The high ceiling and white tone of the space give an unrestricted atmosphere, intriguing people's imagination. The flowing irregular design of the curved walls and columns makes the space seem more complelling. Individual spaces are created through lighting, e.g. no lanterns in passageways to show a short animation on the four sides of the wall. The enormous quantity and the natural transition makes me feel as a part of the animation, entering a new world. 

My favorite architect is Alejandro Aravena who can see the forest beyond the trees. Instead of focusing on architecture itself, he first identifies surrounding problems then cleverly solves them through his design. The most impressive piece was the ELEMENTAL project where he only provided half of the house and let the family complete it while living. Hence, he provided a large piece of land with lower financial burden of the family and gave them the freedom of the habitat. It shows how architectural design can impact people's lives.

    I want to visit the Therme Valas Spa designed by Peter Zumthor one day. It is established along with the nearby hotel as a spa complex in Valas. The spa coexists with its geography by being built underneath the hill-side, keeping the scenery for the close hotel. It also utilizes multiple natural elements. For instance, the wall is built with different sizes of rocks to be viewed as a strata; the shower system is placed high to be interpreted as a waterfall. Most importantly, the spa minimized lights to maximize the 'touch' sense, focusing on the purpose of the place.