The natural-style library "Forest of Everyone" designed by Toyo Ito

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 
Japanese architectural master Toyo Ito is probably the most well-known architect among Taiwanese people. Works such as the National Taichung Theater and Songshan Cultural and Creative Park’s Eslite Bookstore are all manifestations of his vision for urban spaces. The media center he built in 2015 in Gifu City features a uniquely shaped building that combines a library, a learning center, and multimedia functions. Its distinctive spatial design further allows visitors to feel the special charm of nature.

This Gifu Media Center is also known as the "Forest of Everyone." Master architect Toyo Ito believes that architecture should be part of nature, so the design emphasizes harmony with the natural environment. A large amount of local wood was used, allowing visitors to smell the comforting scent of timber upon entering. The special design makes one feel as if they are walking into a forest, where natural breezes and light can be felt indoors.

The Gifu Media Center is a place where people can gather, communicate, and share information. Children can enjoy the space and read freely. The interior includes 11 suspended “spherical domes” that not only create a cozy, home-like atmosphere but also serve ventilation purposes. On sunny days, natural daylight filters through these domes into the interior, and people can read under this gentle light as if they were reading in a forest.