▲ National Taitung University’s renovation: A semi-enclosed space subtly creates a small, private corner for those waiting.

 

To help universities create more student-friendly counseling environments, the Ministry of Education commissioned the Taiwan Design Research Institute to promote the “Design Movement for Student Wellbeing” University Counseling Space Transformation Project. By integrating design with psychological support services, the project aims to create counseling spaces that are safe, comfortable, and warm. In its first year, the project completed space transformations at four universities: Tamkang University, National Formosa University, Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages, and National Taitung University. A presentation of the outcomes was held on April 17, 2025, at Not Just Library, Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, featuring the participating schools and design teams sharing their experiences and design strategies.

 

As Taiwan’s first cross-disciplinary collaboration between the fields of counseling and design, “Design Movement for Student Wellbeing” addresses common challenges in campus counseling spaces with practical solutions. Design teams worked closely with users to understand their needs, improving spatial flow, functional integration, and privacy. For example:

 

• National Formosa University and Wenzao Ursuline University reconfigured counseling and office areas to enhance independence and safety.
• Tamkang University added refreshment and discussion zones to foster a more relaxed and interactive work environment.
• National Taitung University introduced modular cabinets for greater storage and flexible use of space.

 

 

▲ Tamkang University’s renovation: Soft curtains in the group counseling room create a warm, relaxing atmosphere—offering a more flexible and inviting alternative to traditional fixtures.

 

▲ National Formosa University’s renovation: Greenery, soft neutral tones, and a curved ceiling in the counseling room create a calming buffer, easing psychological tension.

 

▲ Wenzao Ursuline University’s renovation: By opening up the terrace and removing part of the wall, the design blurs the line between indoors and out. Glass elements bring in natural light, creating a bright, uplifting space.

 

Positive environmental elements were also embedded in the overall design, creating healing spaces characterized by comfort, safety, and warmth. Natural light and greenery were added at Formosa and Wenzao to enhance relaxation and psychological support. Tamkang adopted soft curtains and curved elements in place of traditional cabinets, increasing privacy and creating a cozy, secure atmosphere.

 

The event was hosted by Deputy Minister of Education Chang Liao Wan-chien, with Legislator Wu Szu-yao, a strong advocate for student mental health and education policy, also in attendance—demonstrating the government’s commitment to mental health. Presidents, student affairs deans, and frontline counselors from various universities also gathered to engage in meaningful cross-sector dialogue.

 

▲ The “Design Movement for Student Wellbeing” held its results presentation on April 17. Deputy Minister of Education Chang Liao Wan-chien, Legislator Wu Szu-yao, along with university presidents, student affairs administrators, frontline counseling staff, and representatives from the design teams enthusiastically gathered for the event.

 

▲ The presentation featured design teams showcasing each exciting stage of the project—from initial design discussions to final completion.

 

▲ After the event, Deputy Minister Chang Liao Wan-chien and Legislator Wu Szu-yao also visited the “Design Movement for Student Wellbeing” exhibition to view the project outcomes.

 

Over the next three years, 24 more universities will benefit from the program, continuing the mission to connect design with mental health care—ensuring more students feel truly supported on campus.Mental health is a cornerstone of a strong society and nation. Let design be the foundation that enables care to be everywhere.

 

 

 

2025 “Design Movement for Student Wellbeing” – Participating Schools and Design Teams:
Tamkang University × Infeel Architects

National Formosa University × TODODESIGN STUDIO

Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages × Metahouse

National Taitung University × linkfun+conc DESIGN