Incorporating contemporary elements into traditional architecture allows for a blend of the past and present, preserving historical significance while adapting modern ideas. Traditional architecture showcases cultural heritage, capturing the essence of a particular time period. By renovating traditional buildings to include contemporary features, not only is the original style maintained, but functionality and usability are also enhanced. This fusion of styles creates an aesthetic appeal that resonates with modern day society, linking tradition and modernism. There are instances where contemporary buildings draw inspiration from traditional philosophies. This blend of traditional and contemporary elements is appealing and has captivated my interest in the intersection of architectural styles. In this paper, I introduce different designs and styles that have been influential in Chinese architecture and show how they combine and merge the traditional and the modern to create aesthetically pleasing designs.
Traditional Chinese architecture, known for its distinct features such as slanted tile roofing, intricate eaves, and integration with vegetation, has influenced architectural style around the world. Central to traditional Chinese architecture are the philosophies embedded in its development over centuries. Concepts like feng shui, Confucianism, Yin and Yang, Zen, Traditionalism, and Modernism philosophies emphasize harmony with nature, balance, and symbolism, and each influences every aspect of Chinese architectural design.
Feng shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy that focuses on harmonizing individuals, buildings, and nature, and has a significant impact on architecture. This idea is often incorporated into projects to create spaces that promote positive energy flow and well-being for the occupants. Qi, the life force energy in feng shui, is a central concept in architectural design. The flow of Qi is considered when planning the layout of buildings to ensure that positive energy circulates freely throughout the space. This can involve positioning entrances, windows, and rooms in a way that optimizes the flow of Qi and enhances the overall harmony of the building. Feng shui principles consider the orientation of buildings, in order to harness beneficial energies and create a sense of balance. Additionally, the placement of furniture, decor, and architectural features are important. Feng Shui also incorporates five elements: water, fire, wood, earth and metal, which correspond to specific colors, materials, and attributes. Feng shui design principles also consider color schemes, materials, and landscaping choices in the overall design of a structure.
Confucianism emphasizes a philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius. The principles and values of Confucianism have been reflected in the design, layout, and function of buildings, especially in courtyard-style architecture. One of the key ideas of Confucianism is the importance of hierarchy in society. In traditional Chinese courtyard houses, different sections were designated for various family members based on their position within the family hierarchy. For example, the main hall was usually reserved for the head of the family. Another aspect of Confucianism is that it highlights harmony and balance in all aspects of life. This is seen through symmetrical layouts, balanced proportions, and careful attention to detail. Courtyard houses often feature a central courtyard that serves as a peaceful and harmonious space, connecting different parts of the house, while providing a sense of balance and unity. Confucianism places great value on tradition and continuity. In architecture, this principle is evident in the preservation and adaptation of traditional building techniques, materials, and styles over generations. Courtyard houses serve as a placement of cultural heritage, embodying centuries of architectural traditions, while adapting to contemporary needs.
Another feature of traditional Chinese architecture is the incorporation of Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang is an ancient Chinese philosophy that teaches that seemingly opposite or contrary forces may actually be complementary and interconnected. Yin represents darkness, femininity, and passivity while Yang symbolizes light, masculinity, and activity. Yin elements in traditional architecture often show simplicity, earthy tones, curved lines, and a connection to nature. These elements create a sense of tranquility. Traditional yang elements include grandeur, intricate details, bold colors, and strong geometric shapes. These aspects bring energy and vitality to the design. Yin aspects in modern architecture feature minimalism, clean lines, neutral colors, open spaces, and emphasis on functionality. Yang elements in modern architecture incorporate innovative materials, technology, and asymmetrical designs. By blending tradition with modernism, nature with technology, simplicity with complexity, structures can be both visually appealing and functionally efficient.
Zen design is also part of Chinese architecture’s history. Zen principles relate to simplicity, naturalness, and harmony with the environment. Zen design usually incorporates clean lines, minimalistic design elements, and uncluttered spaces. The concept of naturalness includes natural light, ventilation, greenery, and materials like wood or stone to create a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature. Zen architecture embraces imperfection and asymmetry as a way to reflect the organic irregularities found in nature. Meditation is a Zen practice which emphasizes tranquility and contemplation. Similarly, by having minimal distractions and a focus on creating peaceful environments, Zen designs aim to provide a calm setting.
Today, Chinese architecture is inspired by Traditionalism and Modernism. Traditionalism in architecture is the idea of styles and principles that have been passed down through generations. This can include historical context, spiritual significance, and traditional Chinese philosophies. Whereas, Modernism in Chinese architecture reflects a complex interplay between traditional elements, Western influences, and symbolic representations. Contemporary Chinese architecture offers sleek, minimalistic designs, and a focus more on efficiency and sustainability.
In my research, I delved into the question: “How do traditional Chinese ideals and architecture influence contemporary architecture in China?” My aim was to explore how contemporary Chinese structures incorporate traditional Chinese architectural principles and beliefs. Whether as an addition or renovation to a traditional Chinese building or as part of a new contemporary structure inspired by traditional Chinese ideals, my research reveals ways in which these influences are portrayed in the architecture of today’s China.
I used photographs to illustrate more modern instances that still reflect their foundational philosophical origins. The images capture the architectural evolution of various structures in China. Some images portray an architectural addition and renovation and others capture newly constructed contemporary buildings. Figure 1 is an example of a very traditional architectural building, which serves as a pivotal reference for the following images, as it represents traditional principles, as well as the architecture of a historical Chinese structure. The subsequent images reveal structures with intricate decorations, expansive geometric windows offering a scenic view and incorporation of greenery into the architectural buildings.
My intention was to arrange the photographs beginning with renovations and additions and then transitioning to fully contemporary designs. I highlight distinctive features and nuances of each image, delving into their significance to Chinese principles. While each structure may exhibit unique characteristics, there is significant overlap in alignment with Chinese principles. The final image selected encapsulates a fascinating narrative, as the structure was destroyed, reconstructed in a poor manner, and re-built into an advanced architectural design, exhibiting numerous Chinese principles.
I incorporated various textual sources, including design project magazines, articles, and scholarly texts exploring China’s architectural design and principles. Specifically, I referenced an academic source from JSTOR, “Chinese Philosophy”, which delves into essential Chinese philosophies such as Yin and Yang and Confucianism. Additionally, another source from JSTOR, “Chinese Architectural History in the Twenty-First Century”, examines the current trends and futuristic directions for Chinese architecture.
The JSTOR article “Chinese Philosophy” discusses the historical development and key concepts within Chinese philosophical thought. It covers various philosophies, such as Yin and Yang and Confucianism, highlighting their unique perspectives on ethics, governance, and human nature. The article delves into the influence of these philosophical traditions on Chinese culture, society, and politics throughout history.
The article, “Chinese Architectural History in the Twenty-First Century” provides an overview of the current state and future directions of Chinese architecture history research. It highlights key themes and trends, including the integration of traditional Chinese architecture with modern design, the role of globalization in shaping Chinese architecture practices, and the importance of preserving historical sites and cultural heritage.
Figure 1: A Garden in Prince Zhong’s mansion in Suzhou, Photographed by Jonathan, 6 March 2010.
Image URL: https://www.flickr.com/photos/iceninejon/4410846983. Accessed 8 May 2024.
Figure 1 displays a garden in Prince Zhong’s mansion in Suzhou that was built in 1863. It depicts an idea of traditional Chinese garden concepts, including traditional principles such as layouts, beliefs, and architecture. This image is important, as it includes traditional ideas to compare to the following images. The picture shows traditional Chinese sloped glazed tile roofing, incorporating eaves on the corners of the roofing. The courtyard is enclosed by four white clay walls. There is also a presence of vegetation in the garden including diverse plants, trees and rocks. In the center of the image, the walkway is curved to flow with the nature surrounding the path. The garden is not manicured or perfect, traditional Chinese beliefs allow vegetation to grow as it does without disturbance. The garden is asymmetrical which was common for traditional gardens.
This garden displays feng shui, Confuciansim, Yin and Yang, Zen and Traditionalism. Feng shui is shown in this garden through the incorporation of nature with buildings to create a place where people can gather and socialize. The pathway placed in the center of the garden symbolizes the flow of Qi energy, which promotes well-being. The path acts as a connector between different areas of the garden, allowing the energy to circulate throughout. The placement of plants, rocks, and trees also supports the feng shui principle as it creates a harmonious environment, according to the five element theory, to optimize energy flow.
Confucianism is presented in this image by the layout, providing balance and unity. This garden is one part of the mansion that is placed in a courtyard that creates a peaceful area for occupants. The courtyard connects different parts of the house, allowing the garden to be the center where families and people can interact with one another in a relaxing manner.
The dark colored tile roofing and nature in the garden represents Yin. Whereas, the white exterior and intricate design on the roofing portrays signs of Yang. These aspects are blended together in this garden mansion to represent the Chinese philosophy that opposite concepts create a complementary area.
Zen is seen through the harmonious blend with buildings and nature. The structure represents minimalistic design such as being painted white and green by the presence of a garden with various plants, trees, and rocks creating a relationship between the environments.
Chinese principles such as feng shui, Confucianism, Yin and Yang, and Zen have been used in China for generations, meaning this garden mansion shows numerous elements of Traditionalism.
Figure 2: Hutong Bubble, photographed by Paul Love, 5 April 2010.
Image URL: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ohskylab/4493451704/. Accessed 8 May 2024.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend in China towards renovating traditional buildings to incorporate more contemporary design elements. These trends reflect the preservation of culture and historical significance in traditional architecture, while also adapting it to meet the needs of modern living. This is seen in Figure 2, which is an image of an addition and renovation of a traditional courtyard, part of the Hutong Bubble 218 project. The project was established to attract new people, activities, and resources to the community surrounding the additions. The renovation was built on an old Hutong house in Beijing in 2019. The bubble structures are made of polished steel, which mirrors the surrounding area, giving the impression of a more open and expansive space. The polished steel also reflects the surrounding traditional architecture. The bubbles, and the other building renovations, were designed to provide flexible spaces that can be used for varied purposes, such as mediation, meetings, or just socializing. Some bubbles were specifically designed to serve as a bathroom or an enclosed spiral staircase. The other, non-bubble renovations, integrate into the architectural aesthetic of the traditional courtyard buildings. In Figure 2, the courtyard building itself was redone with clay brick, adding new large windows to allow more natural light into the building.
The placement of the bubbles enhances the space’s functionality and incorporates traditional Chinese philosophies, such as feng shui, which is seen through harmonizing the buildings with nature, and the bubble’s reflection of the traditional architecture. Based on how the bubbles were placed throughout the building also reflects the flow of Qi energy. Confucian values of community and social cohesion are reflected in the project’s aim to attract new people and activities to the neighborhood. The balance between the traditional and modern elements represent the principle of Yin and Yang, creating a harmonious blend of the old and the new.
Figure 3: Micro Yuan-er, Beijing. Photographed by trevor.pratt, 5 December 2020
Image URL: https://www.flickr.com/photos/trevorpatt/50683408073/in/photostream/. Accessed 8 May 2024.
Figure 4: Micro Yuan-er, Beijing. Interior. Photographed by trevor.pratt, 5 December 2020
Image URL: https://www.flickr.com/photos/trevorpatt/50683407288/in/photostream/. Accessed 8 May 2024.
Figure 3 and 4 are images of Micro Yuan-er located in Beijing and completed in 2013. The goal of the project was to redesign, renovate, and re-use small kitchens that families had built throughout the courtyard. Micro Yuan-er follows a traditional layout, consisting of a central courtyard surrounded by structures on all four sides. Rather than demolishing existing structures, Micro Yuan’er embraced adaptive reuse, renovating and repurposing the dilapidated courtyard homes. This preserves the historical fabric of the neighborhood, while allowing new life into the old structures. Some kitchens were renovated, whereas others were redesigned into activity areas, such as a library and art space for children in the community. The renovation consisted of new modern windows, with skylights in some buildings, wood flooring, doors, furniture, electrical systems, and plumbing. These renovations incorporated elements, such as blue-gray brick and glazed red roofing, of traditional Chinese architecture. The renovation created an open concept idea and provided public service functions that were not previously available to the community.
Figure 3 displays some renovated structures in the courtyard. The mix of traditional and modern features is shown well in this image, with traditional slanted tile roofing present on the top of the structures, while incorporating modern windows into the buildings themselves. This blend of architecture displays Yin and Yang ideas, as well as Traditionalism and Modernism. There is also a tree placed between two structures showing how nature is incorporated into the courtyard rather than being destroyed, which presents feng shui and Zen principles. Figure 4 represents the interior of one of the structures, specifically the library. This image reveals the presence of a skylight and modern amenities, such as a built in plywood bookshelf and seating. There are also floor to ceiling windows to the right of the image, looking out toward the courtyard, welcoming natural light and ventilation into the building. Confucianism values are reflected in this image by creating an improved courtyard which will allow community members to socialize as well as have the use of library, art space, and other areas for activities.
Figure 5: The Wormhole Library in Haikou’s Century Park, on the day before the official opening. Photographed 11 April 2021
Image URL: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:WormholeLibrary11.jpg. Accessed 8 May 2024.
Figure 5 is an image of the Cloudscape, a contemporary architectural structure situated within a park in Haikou, completed in 2021. The structure embodies a contemporary architectural style that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing functional spaces for various activities. Molded in concrete, the Cloudscape features a modern aesthetic characterized by its sleek lines and innovative elements. Circular openings are present facing the ocean, facilitating, ventilation, bringing in natural light, and framing views. The design incorporates cave-like forms, blending between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing people to observe the sky and the sea through these openings.
Located in a park by the ocean, the Cloudscape serves as a place of relaxation and meditation for people living in the urban area. Its secluded setting and thoughtful design invite visitors to escape the urban hustle of city life and immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere. Inside the building, there is a library and a range of amenities, such as cafés, public restrooms, a nursery room, and other activities catering to various needs of the community.
The architectural principles of feng shui have likely influenced the orientation, layout, and overall design of the Cloudscape, considering the natural elements, such as the park and ocean, around the structure. Confucian values are incorporated in its role as a gathering place for families and for community events to take place, enhancing social cohesion and communal well-being. The balance between open and enclosed spaces reflects the concept of Yin and Yang, while the connection to nature fosters a sense of Zen, promoting tranquility and mindfulness. Embracing modernist ideals, the Cloudscape appears sleek and employs cutting-edge construction techniques, yet although contemporary features are carried throughout the structure, the building also resembles traditional principles by maintaining Chinese cultural heritage through the ideals.
Figure 6: Jiaxing Railway Station South Waiting Area, taken on June 26, 2021. This waiting area is used for the passengers for trains to Hangzhou, Jiangxi, Hunan, etc. Photographed 26 June 2021.
Image URL: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:CR_Jiaxing_Railway_Station_South_Waiting_Area.jpg. Accessed 8 May 2024.
Figure 7: Chinese: Railway Jiaxing Station. Photographed 30 October 2021
Image URL: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jiaxing_Railway_Station,_2021-10-30_03.jpg. Accessed 8 May 2024.
Figures 6 and 7 depict the Jiaxing Railway Station, situated in the city of Jiaxing and completed in 2021. This station stands as a reconstruction and expansion of the original railway station built in 1907. The original station was destroyed half a century ago. According to Forbes magazine, the structure comprises 210,000 bricks crafted from mud sourced from a nearby lake and other locally available materials. The structure is roofed by a ‘floating’ metal and covered in solar panels. Figure 6 provides a glimpse of the south waiting area, a serene space that incorporates vegetation and seating. The sleek white cladding extends throughout the interior, which displays modernist features. The station presents abundant windows and a sizable skylight, inviting natural light into the space and overall fostering a human-centric and efficient environment.
The station’s primary functions are underground, allowing parks to be placed above, offering an area for visitors and local communities to socialize, relax, and meditate. ArchyDaily observed that there are over 1,500 trees planted across the landscape. Elevated areas surrounding the station appear as rings on top of hills. Figure 7 showcases one of the rings, featuring a transit entrance and exit. The interior of the ring has a staircase and elevator, incorporating the same cladding walls, open concept idea, and clean lines. The park above includes a central lawn which serves as a venue for various outdoor events such as concerts and festivals.
The architectural layout of the railway station is designed to prioritize efficient pedestrian flow, with multiple ground-level entrances and exits, as well as access points via the ring openings containing stairwells and elevators. Reflecting Confucian principles, the design embodies symmetry, orderliness, and spaces for communal interaction and relaxation in the park and station. Yin and Yang principles are represented through the interplay of lighting and the fusion of curved and straight architectural lines create a harmonious balance. Embracing the modernist ideals, the station includes a sleek white color palette, minimalist aesthetics, and the abundant use of contemporary materials, such as glass and steel, creating a simple transportation station. Traditional beliefs are shown in creating a meditative interaction with nature, while also emphasizing social interaction within the community. Zen principles are incorporated through the clean, uncluttered spaces, and integration with the surrounding landscape. Additionally, design elements, such as gardens and meditation spaces, maintain a sense of calmness amidst the urban area surrounding the station.
The incorporation of traditional Chinese principles and architectural ideas into contemporary structures represents a harmonious blend of past traditions and future innovation. By including inspiration from China’s architectural heritage, modern architects are able to create buildings that not only reflect the country’s cultural identity but also push the boundaries of design. The fusion of old and new not only results in visually appealing structures but also serves a functional purpose and evolves with the present society’s needs.
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