winding tube rack reclaims urban spaces for bike parking and public seating in taipei

Tanyi Huang and Tsaiher Cheng reclaim urban spaces

In the bustling urban context of Taipei’s Fujin Village, TUBE RACK is a universal bike rack that seeks to reclaim urban spaces for accessibility and inclusivity. Designed by Tanyi Huang and Tsaiher Cheng, the structure was received at the 16th Taipei Design Award, earning both the Bronze Award and the Sponsors Award for the Public Space Design Category. Faced with the challenge of limited space on Taiwanese pedestrian paths, TUBE RACK addresses the need for efficient bicycle parking and urban seating. Its form allows for one-sided or both-sided parking and offers dual-level bike parking, which allows the system to adapt to the demands of urban mobility. The defining visual element a curving steel tube that provides structural integrity while defining the urban horizon with its vibrant, fluid presence.

all images by Brian Su, courtesy of Tanyi Huang

curving tube rack enhances accessibility and openness in taipei

Recognizing the pressing need for more accessible and open urban spaces, Tanyi Huang and Tsaiher Cheng drew inspiration from the congested streets of Fujin Village. The installation of TUBE RACK replaces a conventional car parking lot, creating room for eight bicycle parking spaces, additional motorcycle parking, wheelchair-accessible corners, and even a touch of greenery with space for a small tree.

TUBE RACK serves as safe barriers between driveways and sidewalks, offering temporary rest points for pedestrians and cyclists alike. In streets where businesses are cautious about bicycles impeding foot traffic, the flexibility of TUBE RACK allows it to be strategically placed to accommodate both commercial interests and pedestrian flow. By providing extra seating for customers or transforming into a children’s playground during the day, its adaptability enriches the urban experience.

Curving lines within the structure create safe pockets for individuals to pause and take a rest, contributing to the fluidity, simplicity, and flexibility that define the project. The TUBE RACK project extends beyond Fujin Village, comprising notable installations such as the Taipei Zoo Front Square, a collective urban forest bicycle park, and the MRT Exit Plaza, a meeting point enhanced by the presence of urban greens.

curving lines enfold a safe pocket areas to take a rest

lines by nature are the exemplification of fluidity, simplicity, and flexibility

street order is given by a curving steel tube defining the horizon

a resting point in the neighborhood

creating more urban corners where cyclists and pedestrians can rest, while street stores enjoy more customers

MRT exit plaza — a meeting point where people can interact with urban greens

Taipei Zoo Front Square — a collective urban forest bicycle park

project info:

name: TUBE RACK
designer: Tanyi Huang, Tsaiher Cheng

location: Fujin Village, MingSheng Community, Taipei, Taiwan

client (concept phase): FUDE (Foundation of Universal Design Education)

client (execution phase): Taipei City Urban Regeneration Office

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: ravail khan | designboom