LUYA Academy is a newly-built educational campus located in Taiwan. The private international school has classes taught mainly in English that ranges from kindergarten to middle school.
The campus includes a central courtyard that is visible from anywhere, a brick campanile-like structure, and grand stairs that connect the whole school. These three elements evoke a sense of tradition and academic excellence all around.
Four primary materials were incorporated to the façade of the campus buildings: Stucco, which covers most of the building surfaces; Brick, used for the campanile element to evoke the Ivy League aesthetic; Wood accents, adding warmth and texture; and lastly raw concrete, which is used on the exterior walls and entrance, enhancing the visual impact and introducing a hint of brutalism and modernity into the design.
The Entrance Building consists of communal spaces: including the main foyer, a library, and an auditorium, making it the heart of shared activities and events for students. Drawing inspiration from a concept of an open book— a universal symbol of learning and knowledge, this is reflected in the wide curved façade of the building. The roof is shaped like wings, symbolizing freedom and representing the ability to soar in education, further reinforcing the theme of intellectual growth. Overall the design is viewed as an invitation to explore the written word and embodies the idea that education is a lifelong journey.
The Education Building is dedicated to classrooms and administrative spaces. Kindergarten classrooms are found on the lower floors, with middle school classrooms found towards the top, reflecting the progression of the education levels as one ascends the building. The façade is inspired by the works of Piet Mondrian, featuring a playful geometric design. This creates an illusion that students are learning and studying while being in a work of art.