Yunlin to turn former tax worker dorms into arts hub

Yunlin County has begun restoring a seven-building historic dormitory complex once used by tax officials, with plans to turn the site into what county officials have called an “international arts base” by the end of 2027.

The county government has budgeted NT$107.84 million (US$3.36 million) for the project, which covers 36 units in the former staff housing compound. A groundbreaking ceremony was held with Yunlin County Magistrate Chang Li-shan (張麗善) and Deputy Magistrate Chen Pi-chun (陳璧君) in attendance.

County officials said the site will be reused for artist residencies, creative work, lodging, exhibitions, and some office and commercial functions. Two of the buildings, called Lian and Neng, are to be used for offices, business activities, and display space. The others will be reserved for public facilities as well as residences and studios, per the report.

According to Cultural and Tourism Department Director Hsieh Ming-hsuan (謝明璇), the complex was originally known as Mingde Village and dates to 1965 and 1966. The county registered it as a historic building in 2006.

County planners hope the restored buildings will strengthen a nearby series of heritage sites that already includes the Yunzhong Street police dormitories, Taiping Old Street, and Xingqi Memorial Hall.