“Lightbox Photo Library” was founded in 2016. It was located in Jinmen Street, Guting (n01.), dedicates to create a non-profit, free and open platform of photography. In order to solve the expansion needs, an application was made to Taipei City Government “The Reform Space” project to activate idle space by self-repair instead of rent payment. 

The site is a rectangular space in the alley, near the Taipower Building Station and Wen-Ro-Ting district, aiming to bring photography into daily life in combination with the local artistic and cultural atmosphere. To achieve the core value of “Free to All”, besides a friendly photobook library for everyone, we attempt to create not only rich reading experiences in a relatively single space through flexible, creative and sustainable design, but also open events, like lectures, discussions and community activities. 

Inspired by “iron window” culture of Taiwan, the light industrial materials commonly used in Taiwan are applied in the space. The “framing” penetrated by the sight lines up the spatial hierarchy to connect the street atmosphere to the interior. Due to transparent space and continuous common ground, it’s friendly and accessible for everyone to visit. By inserting the island-like bookcases, several different reading corners, gallery and reading path are generated in Lightbox. 

Considering feasibility and adaptability of space, most materials and furniture elements can be recycled or reused in the future. By gently creating Lightbox, a complete space will be returned after the expiration but also it can be adjusted and move to the next location freely. More than a library, it’s an open platform that keeps pace with photography culture in Taiwan.