Old Taipei Houses Reborn: Embark on a Journey Through Time at Lao Wu Yan

By MOOK Editorial Department
 
The “revitalization of old buildings” has become a popular trend across Taiwan. With urban development, many historic structures have gradually fallen into disrepair. Their former vibrancy and beauty often evoke sighs of nostalgia and calls for preservation. Amidst this atmosphere, many civic groups have joined the movement to transform old houses, helping to repurpose them as restaurants, exhibition spaces, and more—using boundless creativity to revive the city’s historical memories.

Bao’an 84 is housed in a Japanese Baroque-style building once located on Bao’an Street, historically known as “Doctors’ Street.” Its gray-washed pebble-dashed walls, Greek-style columns, and traditional Japanese wooden windows that open vertically and horizontally make the large characters reading “Shun Tian Surgical Hospital” particularly eye-catching. Situated on what was once called Doctors’ Street, Shun Tian Surgical Hospital is one of the few well-preserved historic buildings, brought back to life through the restoration and renovation efforts of several architects.

In this space, the old house has been given a new lease on life, perpetually filled with the aroma of coffee. It radiates warmth through its lighting and the hospitality of its patrons, welcoming neighbors to stop by for a chat. Seated on the first floor and looking up, the second-floor railing and bookshelves create an illusion as if you’ve stumbled upon a floating picture gallery. The L-shaped corridor of bookshelves is lined with old tomes—flip through any page, and you might uncover dusty memories long tucked away. The space is also adorned with old photographs hung from hemp ropes, adding a unique vintage charm to the old building.

Jisui’an Literary Forest is quietly nestled at the end of Tong’an Street, nestled within the shade of banyan trees. Once by the banks of the Xindian River, it later became separated by a levee. Close to water yet hidden from view, much like its winding history, it remained concealed behind metal fencing for a long time, overlooked by passersby who never realized the gem that lay right before their eyes.

Bashiba Tea Round-Robin House is located within the plaza of Xibenyuan Temple. Originally the residence of the temple’s chief abbot, its classic, traditional aura gives off strong vibes of Kyoto, Japan. The venue uses the bowl-brewing method to prepare tea, with staff explaining each step and detail of the process. Aside from savoring locally sourced Taiwanese teas, the rustic ambiance also offers a sense of tranquility and leisure.