The National Museum of Prehistory in Taitung, Taiwan, has undergone a major renovation that addresses decades-old operational challenges while preserving the architectural vision of its original designer, renowned postmodern architect Michael Graves. Ja-Sheng Chen Architects led the comprehensive 1,549-square-meter renovation project that transforms how visitors experience this culturally significant institution.
The museum, which opened in 1999 approximately 5 kilometers from Taitung City center, had struggled with functional problems for over 20 years. The original design featured a complicated circulation system that confused visitors, while spaces like Mountain Plaza and the greenhouse restaurant failed to operate effectively in the region's intense tropical climate. These operational challenges prompted museum leadership to seek architectural solutions that would modernize the facility while respecting Graves' original postmodern design principles.
The renovation project focused on creating connectivity between five previously isolated main areas: the Ticket Lobby, Mountain Plaza, Exhibition Atrium, Education space, and Backyard Garden. The architects' primary intervention involved demolishing four massive concrete bleachers that were rarely used by visitors. In their place, the team created a 12-meter-wide corridor that now serves as the museum's circulation spine, linking all major spaces and dramatically improving visitor flow throughout the building.
One of the most significant changes involved the exhibition areas, where architects removed a 224-meter-long ramp that previously connected the atrium to basement exhibition rooms. This bold move allowed natural sunlight to reach the basement level for the first time and created a direct visual connection between the exhibition spaces and the central atrium. To maintain the original concept of "walking down into the ground," the design team installed a grand 12-meter-wide staircase that replaces the demolished ramp while creating a more dramatic descent experience.
The renovation also addressed changing museum practices, as institutions worldwide have shifted from serving primarily as knowledge repositories to offering immersive life experiences. Several spaces were relocated and expanded to better serve contemporary visitors. The education center was significantly enlarged and now includes dedicated parent-child activity areas. The restaurant was moved from its problematic greenhouse location to a second-floor corridor that offers panoramic views of the backyard garden and provides better visibility from the entrance lobby.
Additional improvements include a new special exhibition bridge that provides alternative access to temporary exhibition spaces and an open-concept gift shop featuring comfortable window seating areas for visitors. These changes collectively transform the National Museum of Prehistory from an academic institution into a community gathering place that welcomes all citizens while maintaining its educational mission.
The project represents a thoughtful approach to museum renovation that balances respect for original architectural vision with practical improvements for modern operations. By addressing circulation problems, improving natural lighting, and creating more flexible spaces for diverse programming, Ja-Sheng Chen Architects have successfully updated Michael Graves' design for 21st-century museum visitors while preserving the building's distinctive postmodern character.
