Tile Renovation of Exterior Walls for the Taiwan Governor's Office

摘要

Completed in 1919, the Taiwan Governor's Office has been regarded as the symbol of authority in Taiwan from the colonization by Japan to the present. Its brilliant appearance of intertwined red bricks and white stones, originating from the European Baroque style in the 18th and 19th centuries, has been eroded by die harsh weather for more than 80 years. The exterior wall of red unglazed tiles is the most important material in the renovation project. It was originally manufactured by Shinagawa Shirorenga Co., Ltd. However, tile production ceased completely in Taiwan and Japan in 1935. The end of production resulted in the loss of this traditional manufacturing technology. Research has found that the most important factors for re-making the tiles successfully are: (i) firing temperature, (ii) reconstruction of manufacturing technologies and (iii) firing improvement. This made possible the reemergence of the original beautiful style and features of the Governor's Office. The conclusions of this research can be shared and referenced by those who are devoted to the renovation and preservation of historical buildings.