In 1906, a young architect named Kondo Juro arrived in Taiwan with great passion, eager to contribute to Taipei's rapid modernization. Determined to apply the Western architectural techniques he had mastered, Kondo played a crucial role in advancing the city’s infrastructure. He was greatly influenced by architectural masters Tatsuno Kingo and Josiah Conder, adopting the "Tatsuno Style" characterized by red bricks and white horizontal bands, symbolizing the fusion of Eastern and Western architectural aesthetics.
However, the Red House project was not Kondo’s solo endeavor. His collaboration with Matsugasaki Tsumunaga brought a unique architectural harmony between an octagonal design and a cross-shaped layout. This combination symbolized more than technical prowess: the octagon represented the Bagua from Eastern philosophy, while the cross paid homage to Western Christian symbols, making the Red House a true emblem of cultural convergence.
In 1908, the Red House was completed as a bustling marketplace, symbolizing the dawn of modern Taipei. It became more than a market; it was a cultural and historical icon. Every time Kondo Juro reflected on the Red House, he felt immense pride, knowing that this structure embodied the love and respect he and Matsugasaki had for Taiwan. Standing tall for over a century, the Red House remains a significant landmark, showcasing Taiwan’s deep architectural heritage and cultural diversity.
