B+P Architects has completed the Harbourside Canopy, an innovative 496-square-meter fishing market pavilion in Hsinchu, Taiwan, that seamlessly blends commercial functionality with educational programming. The project, completed in 2025, represents a contemporary approach to traditional market architecture, creating a direct connection between the harbor's fishing activities and the inland marketplace through thoughtful design and strategic positioning.
The central structure functions as both a fishing market and landscape pavilion, composed of carefully orchestrated elements including sheds, walls, earth berms, and strategic tree plantings. This open-volume design creates a fluid transition space that connects the active fishing dock with the commercial marketplace inland. The architectural team, led by Jeff Tsai, Yisin Lin, Jason Xu, and Ray Chang, designed the pavilion to serve multiple purposes: fixed-net fishing operations, retail fish stalls, and educational programs that celebrate and promote the region's rich fishing culture.
A defining feature of the design is the north-facing concrete wall that runs parallel to the pier, serving as both a structural anchor and a protective barrier against strong coastal winds. This strategic positioning demonstrates the architects' understanding of the harsh maritime environment and their commitment to creating a functional space that can withstand the elements. The concrete wall's placement parallel to the waterfront maximizes protection while maintaining visual connections to the harbor activities.
The landscape design incorporates earth berms and windbreak forests that work in conjunction with the concrete wall to create environmental stability and comfort for users. These natural elements provide multiple layers of protection while creating a gradual transition between the interior market space and the exterior coastal environment. The integration of these landscape features reflects a holistic approach to site design that considers both human comfort and environmental sustainability.
The project utilized a diverse range of materials including glass, steel, and concrete, creating a modern aesthetic that complements the industrial nature of the fishing industry while providing transparency and openness essential for market activities. The construction team, led by Ching Sung Construction Co., Ltd., worked closely with specialized timber construction specialists Fure Jang Enterprise Co. Ltd. to ensure the highest quality execution of the design vision.
Structural engineering by Dynas Engineering Consultants Co., Ltd., and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services by Hung To Engineering Consultants Co., Ltd., ensured the pavilion meets all technical requirements for commercial food handling and public assembly. The lighting design by IO Lighting Design Co., Ltd., creates an inviting atmosphere that enhances both the commercial activities during the day and the educational programming that extends into evening hours.
The Harbourside Canopy represents more than just a market structure; it embodies the city's vision for celebrating and preserving local fishing culture while providing economic opportunities for the community. The pavilion's educational component allows visitors to learn about traditional fishing methods, sustainable practices, and the importance of the maritime industry to the region's heritage and economy. This dual function as both commercial space and cultural center positions the project as a significant contribution to Hsinchu's cultural infrastructure and economic development.
