Experimental Forestry Station Introduction
The Chiayi Experimental Wood Factory originated from the old prison dormitory complex, which was left unused for over a decade and had fallen into disrepair. In recent years, the city government has promoted the "Restoration of the Wood Capital Historical Site Project," transforming two four-unit dormitory buildings into the Experimental Wood Factory, the first experimental woodworking facility in Chiayi City. This base aims to foster experimentation, exchange, and talent development in the wood industry, hoping to highlight and promote the unique characteristics of Chiayi as a wood capital. The Experimental Wood Factory is located at the center of the old prison dormitory complex, utilizing the restructured design of the two four-unit Japanese dormitories to create two distinct woodworking zones, one to the north and one to the south. The north building preserves the structure and appearance of the Japanese dormitory and employs structural design techniques to transform traditional wood construction into a modern wooden space while incorporating modern seismic-resistant methods to enhance the support and resistance of traditional wooden architecture. The south building is based on the Japanese dormitory but features innovative characteristics with new wooden materials and structures, featuring large-span designs that provide spacious interiors. The south building serves as the woodworking factory, while the north building will function as a research, teaching, and exhibition space, showcasing the fusion and dialogue between old and new wooden construction techniques.
