大稻埕辜宅, Historical mansion in Datong District, Taiwan
The Koo family residence is a mansion in Datong featuring ornate arched windows, geometric plasterwork, and detailed balusters across multiple floors. The building sits near the Tamsui River and was designed to serve both as a home and a business headquarters.
The mansion was built in 1920 for the Koo family near their salt trading business. It became one of the most influential residences in this commercial area and reflected the prosperity the family gained through their riverside trade operations.
The interior shows a blend of Eastern and Western design choices, with cypress wood ceilings and staircases marked by the Daiwa Trading Company. The rooms tell of a family that lived between two worlds and expressed their connections through the building's details.
The building now houses a kindergarten and preserves many original architectural features while remaining in active use. Visitors should note that access may be limited since it continues to function as an educational facility.
Ships could dock directly in front of the residence, and the family received special permission to drive on the river embankment. These privileges showed the power and influence the family held in Taipei's trading world.
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