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
the design reimagines the conventional monument
an elevated stainless steel plate represents a ‘magic carpet’
the courtyard serves as a functional space for students and the public
the project is dedicated to Dr. Yen-Son Huang, a technologist and serial entrepreneur
the steps inspire NYCU students and the broader community
LED strips highlight the circlular chape of the amphitheater
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
