JC. architecture & design's wafer-inspired memorial doubles as an amphitheater in taiwan

JC. Architecture & design creates silicon wafer-inspired memorial

JC. Architecture & Design completes an unconventional memorial at the National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) in Hsinchu, Taiwan. The project is dedicated to Dr. Yen-Son Huang, a technologist and serial entrepreneur in the country’s semiconductor industry. Inspired by his status, the architects develop the Dr. Yen-Son (Paul) Huang Courtyard by creating an amphitheater framed in a circular shape, reminiscent of a silicon wafer, a nod to the technologist’s work. A stainless steel plate, elevated from the ground, represents a ‘magic carpet’ where students can sit, inspired to pursue their aspirations. This approach allows the courtyard to serve as a functional space for students and the public. Dr. Huang emphasized the importance of social interaction, encouraging students to ‘study hard, work hard, and make good friends.’ The courtyard embodies this principle, doubling as an open-air theater where students, visitors, and staff can brainstorm, communicate, and mingle. 

all images provided by JC. Architecture & Design, photographer: Kuomin Lee

Dr. Yen-Son Huang Courtyard hosts 3D printed seating area

The courtyard by JC. Architecture & Design features seven steps, symbolizing Dr. Huang’s philosophy on achieving success: Mission (道), Trends (天), Terrain (地), Leaders (將), Methodology (法), Inclusion (容), and Path to Success (易). These steps inspire NYCU students and the broader community, promoting a shared aspirational vision. The ROSO robot manufacturing laboratory constructed the seating area using 3D printing. The transparent and gradient blue design evokes a sense of future technology, with fluid lines and water wave elements.

Dr. Huang, known for developing PiE Design Systems and NOVAS Software and creating the Dracula physical design verification system, was an NYCU graduate. His family donated 20 million NTD to honor his deep connection to his alma mater, resulting in an architectural tribute designed by the Taiwanese firm. Unveiled during the Department of Electrophysics’ 60th anniversary, the courtyard deviates from traditional monuments by transforming into an engaging public space that reflects Dr. Huang’s entrepreneurial spirit and contributions.

a circular shape, reminiscent of a silicon wafer, shapes the amphitheater

seven steps symbolize Dr. Huang’s philosophy

3D printed seating area features a transparent and gradient blue design

the seats are adorned with fluid lines and water wave elements

the ROSO robot manufacturing laboratory constructed the seating area

an elevated stainless steel plate represents a ‘magic carpet’

the project is dedicated to Dr. Yen-Son Huang, a technologist and serial entrepreneur

the steps inspire NYCU students and the broader community

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Dr. Huang was an NYCU graduate

the courtyard deviates from traditional monuments

elevated platform of the courtyard

silicon wafer is the design lead and inspiration

the idea of forced 3D perspective which lifts the courtyard from the groun

concept diagram by JC. Architecture & Design

project info:

name: Dr. Yen-Son (Paul) Huang Courtyard 

location: Hsinchu, Taiwan
architect: JC. Architecture & Design | @jc.architecturedesign
design team: Johnny Chiu, Nora Wang, Jube Chu, Hank Li
area: 50sqm
photographer: Kuomin Lee, images provided by JC. Architecture & Design

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom