Taipei Dome

Design Concept

The massive dome occupies a strategic corner site, cleverly extending into the residual space beneath the spectator seating, where a cluster of retail outlets activates the area. This not only invigorates typically quiet periods without events but also serves as a vital catalyst pushing the Zhongxiao commercial district eastward.

The Dome’s exterior is wrapped in titanium metal panels and anchors the intersection of Zhongxiao East Road and Guangfu South Road, creating a significant visual presence in the urban fabric. An eight-story retail block conceals the Dome’s western façade; its glass curtain wall stretches southward, framing a corner plaza. This retail volume then extends east along the Dome, attempting to partially mask its enormous bulk.

The project stakeholders believed that completely concealing the Dome would diminish its architectural presence. As a balanced solution, half of the Dome remains exposed—highlighting the main entrance that faces Dome Plaza and creating a visual connection with neighboring hotels and office towers. To accommodate the significant parking requirements (2,850 car spaces and 3,600 scooter spaces), the design includes five dedicated entry ramps and six exit ramps. A spacious, tree-lined promenade stretching 200 meters between Zhongxiao East Road and Guangfu South Road offers one of Taipei’s few truly pedestrian-friendly urban environments.

Structural and Design Features

The Dome’s roof employs a bidirectional diagonal lattice truss system that transfers loads to a saddle-shaped tension ring. Viewed from below, the angled trusses form an elegant architectural expression.

The expansive main entrance faces Dome Plaza and offers two levels of semi-outdoor plazas beneath ground levels one and two, matching the plaza size above. These spaces efficiently accommodate large, transient crowds. Dramatic double-height volumes, wide staircases, and interspersed elevators flood the underground levels with natural light and ventilation, cultivating a unique public realm.

The Zhongxiao East Road commercial district stretches eastward from the SOGO Department Store at Fuxing South Road through Dinghao, interrupted at Guangfu South Road by the historic Matsuyama Tobacco Factory—a legacy of the Japanese colonial era. Eastward beyond Keelung Road, it connects with the Xinyi Planning District commercial zone. Therefore, the Taipei Dome development is critical in bridging the Zhongxiao and Xinyi commercial districts.