Hakka oil-paper umbrella transforms into architectural pavilion
All Together Under the Umbrella is a large-scale installation by artist Cheng Tsung FENG that transforms the symbolic Hakka oil-paper umbrella into an architectural structure of three interconnected canopies. The work, standing in Qingpu Park No. 11, Taiwan, explores themes of gathering, protection, and shared space through spatial interpretation of traditional craft.
In Hakka culture, the oil-paper umbrella represents unity, reunion, and destiny. Its Chinese character, 傘, contains repeated figures of ‘person’ 人, symbolizing human connection and interdependence. Drawing from this linguistic and cultural foundation, FENG expands the umbrella into a set of three radiating forms that merge craft tradition with contemporary spatial design.
all images by FIXER Photographic Studio
Cheng Tsung FENG examines the umbrella’s form as a shared space
The installation’s design process began with a detailed study of the Hakka umbrella’s structure, its ribs, proportions, and joint mechanisms. By deconstructing and reconfiguring these components, artist Cheng Tsung FENG developed a new system of interlaced umbrella frames that form a continuous overhead canopy. The result is a semi-enclosed environment defined by rhythm, repetition, and structural clarity. At the center of the installation lies a small pocket garden surrounded by circular wooden benches, establishing a connection between human activity and natural growth. The canopy itself is made of perforated canvas, allowing light and air to filter through. During the day, it produces a shifting pattern of shadows; at night, it emits a gentle luminosity, and in the rain, its angled planes channel water away in a functional echo of the traditional umbrella.
From a central axis, the three canopy forms extend outward, creating a geometric configuration that changes with the viewer’s position. The space functions as both a shelter and a site of encounter, where material craft and architectural composition converge. Through this installation, All Together Under the Umbrella, elements of Hakka heritage are reinterpreted into a contemporary spatial framework that invites collective experience and reflection.
All Together Under the Umbrella reimagines the Hakka oil-paper umbrella as an architectural structure
three interconnected canopies form the core of Cheng Tsung FENG’s large-scale installation
located in Qingpu Park No. 11, Taiwan, the work creates a shared public space
the installation explores ideas of gathering, shelter, and human connection
the canopies radiate outward, merging craft tradition with architectural design
circular wooden benches create a link between human presence and nature
FENG translates the cultural symbolism of the umbrella into contemporary spatial form
a small pocket garden occupies the center of the installation
deconstructed and reconfigured ribs form a new interlaced canopy system
the perforated canvas canopy filters light and air through its surface
in the rain, angled planes channel water away, echoing the umbrella’s function
at night, the structure glows softly like a lantern
the three canopy forms shift in appearance as viewers move through the space
project info:
name: All Together Under the Umbrella
artist: Cheng Tsung FENG | @chengtsungfeng
location: Qingpu Park No. 11, Qingpu Exhibition Zone, Taoyuan, Taiwan
dimensions: 10.2×10.5×10.1 m
materials: wood, canvas, lacquered iron, LED lighting
adviser: Taoyuan City Government, Taoyuan City Council
organizer: Taoyuan Department of Cultural Affairs, World Hakka Expo
curator: Feng Design
project designer: Hsu Chan-Wei, Wang Sheng
structural analysis: Chien Chuan Engineering Consulting Co.
woodwork: Weige Interior
lighting design: Oude Light
lighting engineer: Beamtec Lighting
photographer: FIXER Photographic Studio | @fixer_photographic_studio
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: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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