No. 38 Jinfan Road, Suzhou, was the former residence of Chinese scholar Zhang Taiyan (1869-1936). In the winter of 1934, Zhang Taiyan initiated Zhang's National Study Seminar in this house, which resulted in the emergence of a group of esteemed disciples, many of whom later achieved prominence as scholars themselves. The residence, thus, served as the focal point for the dissemination of knowledge and the cultivation of scholarly discourse.

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Design Brief

Following the death of Zhang Taiyan in 1936, his residence remained closed for several decades. It was not until 2023 that Zhang's former residence, widely known as Zhang Garden, was reopened to the public as a residence museum. The renovation project included the creation of dedicated exhibition spaces within the house, aimed at showcasing Zhang Taiyan's significant contributions to literature and life scenes, as well as providing educational resources for visitors.

In addition to the residence museum exhibitions, the renovated Zhang Garden now features a Gu Wu Xuan bookstore and library, further enhancing its role as a cultural and community hub. The inclusion of these amenities is designed to attract a broader audience and foster a more vibrant, diverse neighbourhood. Tsing-Tien Making's initiative seeks not only to honour the legacy of Zhang Taiyan by offering a space for historical reflection and learning but also to enrich the local community by introducing a multifaceted cultural venue. Through these efforts, the Zhang Garden aims to become a dynamic house for both historical appreciation and contemporary social engagement.