Chiu’s design nods to Ban in the use of cheap materials. The structure has a corrugated roof and is made entirely of steel “C Channel” beams, commonly associated with low-end construction in Taiwan. Chiu had the beams custom-made to accommodate the structure’s unusual design. The intention in using these materials, he says, was to “celebrate the local” in a “respectful” manner.
The grounds were also designed to be photography-friendly, with ponds full of rocks, lilies and dragonflies, as well as large pools that show reflections of the Paper Dome and cafe area.
Even though tourist numbers continue to climb — since the Lunar New Year, there have been over 120,000 visitors — the Paper Dome will continue to serve as a place for local community development, says Liao Chia-chan. Several locally made crafts, including hats and bags made of paper pulp, are currently being promoted at the Paper Dome’s gift shop, and plans are underway to open an organic farmer’s market run by a local Aboriginal community.
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