Nestled in the outskirts of the modern metropolis of Taipei rests the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT). The AIT serves as a tangible symbol of the flourishing cultural and commercial relations between the people of Taiwan and the United States.
Arriving at the American Institute in Taiwan, visitors pass through a sunken courtyard leading to an entrance canopy. They are welcomed by a serene interior adorned with natural wood, stone materials, and artwork from around the world. Natural light floods through expansive windows, offering views of the city, which visitors can enjoy while sitting on a large, natural edge bench in the atrium lobby.
The workday begins as staff move from the lobby to the office space, convening in large and small conference rooms with views looking down on the landscape and out at vistas.
The campus features pedestrian paths woven along the site, brimming with a diverse selection of native and adapted deciduous shade and ornamental trees and shrubs. The site design makes use of the buildings to provide rooftop terraces or courtyards, while inside there is a large, multi-purpose room for meetings and presentations.
Sustainable features complement Taiwan's sub-tropical climate, including rainwater harvesting that is filtered and reused for landscaping. The use of renewable energy is supported by infrastructure designed to allow AIT to install photovoltaic panels.
The AIT offers a modern workplace and welcoming visitor center that sustainably embraces the beauty of Taiwan's natural landscape, creating a safe and resilient location for the support of American diplomacy abroad.
Artists from around the world discuss their artistic styles, influences, and impressive works that were commissioned for the new American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) under the Art in Embassies program.
The design represents innovation, environmental sustainability, and thoughtful consideration of the visitor experience.
William H. Moser
Along the south of the building, the consular section has its own distinct arrival sequence (AIT provides citizen and consular services on behalf of the US government). Open to the sky while also providing shading, seating, and landscaping, the circular “Butterfly Pavilion” provides an attractive, comfortable, and secure entrance. Visitors then ascend three stories to a walkway and terrace that frame the campus views.
