Chinese Design Research Articles

Towards an Effective Architectural Form: The Composition of Squareness and Roundness Based on Scale Proportion—Evidence from the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda

Investigating the mathematical and geometric principles embedded in ancient classic architecture is a significant tradition in the history of architectural development. Drawing inspiration from the modular design and creative ideology based on the geometric proportions of squareness and roundness in ancient Chinese architecture, we propose a new mode of squareness and roundness composition based on scale proportion specifically for the design of multi-story buildings. Taking Yingxian Wooden Pagoda as the case study, we not only re-evaluate the modular system and proportional rules followed in the design of the entire pagoda, but also reveal the technical approaches and geometric rules for effectively controlling the form of multi-story buildings. In particular, the mode of squareness and roundness composition based on scale proportion, utilizing a modular grid combined with squareness and roundness drawings as decision-making tools, can control the scale and proportion of buildings across different design dimensions and organically coordinate the design of multi-story buildings’ plans and elevations. Thus, it can achieve an effective balance of multi-story architectural forms. This study has potential applications in the creation of traditional multi-story buildings and heritage restoration projects, and offers valuable insights for future research on ancient multi-story buildings.

Application of 3D laser scanning technology for mapping and accuracy assessment of the point cloud model for the Great Achievement Palace heritage building

Heritage buildings represent history and act as vessels of human civilisation. The significance of these architectural phenomena increases as society increases, which renders their preservation and ethical use increasingly crucial. Hence, preserving heritage buildings is necessary for societal benefit. The accuracy of three-dimensional (3D) point cloud models of heritage buildings is important to their digital conservation. Traditional mapping methods typically require more time and human resources. Furthermore, the outcome is subject to measurement omissions, errors, and other issues, which are contrary to the protection of the object measured. The complex elements of ancient Chinese architecture render it challenging for traditional measuring techniques to accurately capture spatial structural information. The 3D laser scanning technology is a novel technology to obtain 3D data rapidly. In this paper, the Great Achievement Palace of the Confucian Temple in Yuci District, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province, was used as an example to examine the application of 3D laser scanning technology to acquire point cloud models of heritage buildings. Field data collection for architectural heritage using 3D laser scanning technology requires measuring station setting analysis to ensure effect accuracy while considering the elements of target location and quantity. For the 3D point cloud model of the Great Achievement Palace, error analysis and accuracy assessment were conducted on the quality elements of alignment accuracy between scanning stations, point cloud model reliability, point cloud data noise condition, and whether the point cloud data were stratified. The findings demonstrated that the improved method quickly and accurately acquired 3D point cloud model data and obtained realistic spatial data models of the heritage building.

Exploration of the International Academic Model of High Vocational Education in Landscape Architecture in China

This article deeply explores the international talent training model of campus forestry major in higher vocational colleges. In the context of globalization, the gardening industry has an increasing demand for talents with international vision and professional skills. The article first takes GPST as an example to analyze the current situation of international talent training in forestry majors in higher vocational colleges, and points out the existing problems and deficiencies, including a single talent training model, weak bilingual teaching faculty, insufficient international practice links, and the curriculum system and international Not enough integration. Then, the article proposes research directions such as building a diversified talent training model, strengthening the construction of bilingual teaching faculty, strengthening international practice links, and updating the curriculum system to align with international standards. Finally, the article gives practical strategies such as clear training goals and positioning, strengthening international cooperation and exchanges, innovating teaching methods and means, and improving the evaluation system and incentive mechanism, in order to improve the quality of training international talents in forestry majors in higher vocational colleges.

From finance to legacy: Exploring Bank of China’s modern buildings as serial cultural heritage

In the early 20th century, China underwent profound societal transformations across cultural, political, economic, and military domains, culminating in the birth of its first national bank, the Bank of China. Enduring for over a century, the Bank of China stands as a testament to the emergence and evolution of a modern nation-state. The edifices housing this paramount institution, as well as their geographical locations and architectural designs, serve as prime examples for studying modern Chinese architecture and social history. This article, rooted in field surveys, traces the development history and current conservation status of the 26 existing Bank of China buildings. It analyzes their locations, construction backgrounds, architectural features, and functional uses. Through an assessment of the historical, artistic, scientific, and socio-cultural values of these bank buildings, this study employs the perspective of “serial cultural heritage” to propose a value-based thematic interpretation aimed at revitalization. In particular, it accentuates that analyses and interpretation of values are fundamental prerequisites for rebuilding and displaying the cultural identity of these buildings.

Chinese architecture inspired smart roof tile integrating radiation cooling, water harvesting, and energy recycling

The development of new materials for resource and energy recycling has emerged as a primary focus in addressing global energy and environmental sustainability challenges. Inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, a smart roof tile (SRT) is scientifically designed, which incorporates hierarchical micro-nanostructured polyethylene/silica/barium sulfate composites (IH-PSB), semiconductor power generation modules, and LED chips. Leveraging the combined effects of surface and interface functionalities, the IH-PSB demonstrates exceptional sub-ambient cooling capabilities, resulting in its surface and bottom temperature being 5.4 °C and 12.1 °C lower than the ambient temperature, respectively. Additionally, the precisely controlled heterogeneous wettability, with a contact angle of approximately 151° and a roll-off angle of around 32°, allows the IH-PSB to efficiently condense moisture and transport droplets. Benefiting from the excellent radiation cooling performance and precisely controlled heterogeneous wettability, the IH-PSB exhibits remarkable passive sub-dewpoint cooling efficiency coupled with efficient water harvesting performance. During a one-month outdoor experiment, the IH-PSB operated stably and continuously without any electrical input, maintaining a mass flux ranging from ∼23.2–50.0 g m−2 h−1. Interestingly, the SRT system efficiently harnesses waste heat generated by the LEDs while simultaneously regulating their temperature effectively. The development and utilization of the SRT offer a sustainable, energy-efficient, and forward-thinking solution that addresses global water scarcity and energy crises.

VR headset vs. PC screen as virtual learning tour interface for Chinese architecture heritage investigation

AbstractIn design education, integrating digital tools has revolutionized pedagogical approaches. This study examines the impact of VR HMDs and PC screens on learning ancient Chinese architecture using a virtual tour. Involving 22 students, it assessed simulator sickness, user experience, and spatial awareness. Results show VR had a more positive spatial learning experience but the same learning outcomes. VR enhances presence but increases simulator sickness. The study underscores VR's potential and limitations in ancient Chinese architectural education, suggesting future research directions.

Analysis of the Spatial Distribution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Traditional Mosque Architecture in the Hehuang Area (China)

Clarifying the spatiotemporal distribution and influencing factors of mosque architecture in China’s Hehuang region has significant positive implications for the overall protection and development of the region’s architectural cultural heritage. This study utilizes field surveys and acquires POI data of traditional mosques built before 1993 in the region to analyze the distribution characteristics of mosques, aiming to explore future development trends of these religious structures. It also investigates the influencing factors, with the goal of emphasizing the primary and secondary factors affecting mosque distribution. The study finds the following: (1) Mosques are generally centered around the Huangshui Valley, displaying a “central clustering, peripheral dispersal” distribution pattern, forming a spatial structure of “two cores, one belt, multiple points”, with distinct differentiation and overall uneven distribution. (2) Mosques are primarily situated at elevations between 2147 and 2764 m; on slopes less than 15°, in sunny and gentle slopes; within 20 km from rivers; within 14 km from roads; in areas receiving 400–500 mm annual rainfall; and within temperature ranges of 5.54–10.22 °C. (3) The study also finds that the spatial distribution of mosques is profoundly influenced by both natural geographical factors and human environmental factors. The better the natural location, the larger and denser the population, the richer the cultural resources, the higher the level of economic development, and the greater the concentration of Hui people, the more numerous and concentrated the mosques. (4) Population factors are the dominant factors for the clustered distribution of traditional mosques in the Hehuang area. Since the construction of mosques in the region is closely related to the number of Hui people and the proportion of Muslim adherents, areas with a high concentration of mosques also have relatively larger populations of Hui people. Temperature, precipitation, altitude, rivers, and roads are foundational factors for traditional mosques in the Hehuang area, influencing mosque distribution as external factors.

Research on Multi-Objective Optimization Design of University Student Center in China Based on Low Energy Consumption and Thermal Comfort

Ensuring optimal building performance is vital for enhancing student activity comfort and fostering energy-saving initiatives toward low-carbon objectives. This paper focuses on university student centers in China, aiming to diminish building energy consumption while enhancing indoor thermal comfort. Parametric modeling of typical cases is executed using the Grasshopper 1.0.0007 software package, and the simulation of building energy consumption and indoor thermal comfort relies on the Ladybug and Honeybee plug-in. Employing a multi-objective optimization design method and the Octopus multi-objective optimization algorithm, this study integrates numerical simulations and on-site surveys to analyze how factors like building form, orientation, envelope structure, and others impact the indoor and outdoor environment. A comprehensive optimization design approach is implemented for the building’s exterior components, including the walls, windows, roof, and shading system. After conducting a comparative analysis of the annual comprehensive energy consumption and indoor thermal comfort before and after the optimization plan, it is determined that implementing these measures reduces the annual comprehensive energy consumption of the building under study by 58.8% and extends the duration of indoor thermal comfort by 53.0%. This study presents a practical optimization design methodology for university student center architecture in China, aiding architects in decision making and advocating for energy-efficient building designs.

Book Review: The Social Imperative: Architecture and the City in China, Edited by Koon Wee Actar Publishers

This review looks at The Social Imperative: Architecture and the City in China, a collection of critical essays and manifestos aimed at enhancing the discourse on contemporary Chinese architecture and urbanism. In particular, it introduces the voices of Chinese architects, urbanists and intellectuals who are themselves central to this discourse.

Intelligent scheduling optimization of prefabricated components for assembly buildings

Prefabricated construction, as an emerging architectural model, has the characteristics of fast construction process and flexible design, and has been widely used in the field of architecture in China. As the core component of prefabricated buildings, the schedule of prefabricated components directly affects the progress and quality of the project. This study extends the volume of prefabricated components from a single building to a group of buildings, designs and solves an intelligent scheduling scheme model based on project construction schedule and procurement plan, and proposes two reference building group scheduling schemes and their applicable conditions. Genetic algorithm is used to optimize vehicle scheduling and transportation paths to achieve intelligent scheduling of prefabricated components in prefabricated building groups, ensuring project progress and quality.

A Modern Retrospective of Tradition: A Brief Introduction to Kengo Kuma’s Works and Architectural Ideas

Kengo Kuma is an internationally recognized Japanese architect today. His works and architectural thoughts are influenced by Japanese geography and cultural traditions, forming a school of its own in Japanese modern architecture. This paper takes Kengo Kuma as the research subject, combining the development trajectory of Japanese modern architecture for more than 100 years to analyze his architectural ideas and design thinking. Kengo Kuma integrates his understanding of traditional Japanese culture and art into modern architecture, by Kengo Kuma’s architectural thoughts and practices bring inspiration and enlightenment for Chinese architects as a path to explore connecting modern trends with traditional designs.

Evaluation of commonly used reinforcement materials for color paintings on ancient wooden architecture in China

Over recent decades, various heritage institutions have utilized a multitude of materials to reinforce the painted layers of ancient Chinese wooden architecture. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the properties and durability of four widely used reinforcement agents, i.e., AC33, B72, FKM, and FEVE, using a series of techniques, including contact angle tests, water vapor permeability measurements, color difference evaluations, tensile strength tests, UV–vis spectrometry, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results demonstrate that the transmittance rates of the films made from these four reinforcement agents are approximately 100% in the visible light range. Among them, the B72 film exhibits the highest hydrophobicity. The AC33 film has better permeability, fair tensile strength, and is more hydrophilic. FKM film is more hydrophobic but has lower permeability and tensile strength. Overall, the FEVE film presents the best comprehensive properties, including better hydrophobicity, higher permeability, and tensile strength. This research provides data evidence to guide heritage conservators and curators in decision-making when selecting appropriate reinforcement materials in practice.

Dialogues of styles

Every major style goes through a series of metamorphoses after its inception. Styles echo each other, learn from each other, argue and penetrate each other. The selection of materials in this section contains the results of historical observations and research, showing these processes on specific examples. How was the great style of classicism reflected in the works of its fiery overthrowers? How was the Enlightenment style transformed on the Far Eastern land? How did Russian architects influence the new architecture of China? How is the cultural heritage of Soviet and German cities reinterpreted? All these materials are united by the theme of the dialogue of styles and the metamorphoses that arise in this process.

Application Strategies of the Bracket Set in Modern Architectural Design

The Bracket Set (dougong) is an important aspect of traditional Chinese architecture known for its exquisite structure, complexity, and rich variations. This design element has been used since the Qin and Han Dynasties and is still prevalent today. It highlights hierarchy and spiritual connotations in the design of a building. This article explores the application of Bracket Set elements in modern architectural design. It analyzes the specific application strategies of this design element, highlighting its value in modern architecture. The goal is to provide modern architectural designers with multiple perspectives and strategies to fully utilize the advantages of Bracket Set elements in architectural design and enhance the artistic value of their work.

From Pagoda to Pavilion: The Transition of Spatial Logic and Visual Experience of Multi-Story Buddhist Buildings in Medieval China

Pagodas and pavilions (ge 閣) are the most popular and representative multi-story buildings since Buddhism was introduced to China. While providing visitors with a new visual experience, they have also largely reshaped the urban space and skyline in medieval China. The former originated from India and Central Asia and was transformed in China, developing a unique style; The latter originated more from the creation of Chinese architects and became a model of typical Chinese-style Buddhist architecture. Briefly, the pagoda matured earlier than the pavilion, and continuously developed while maintaining its basic style; the pavilion-style Buddhist architecture gradually developed later and finally matured after the Tang and Song dynasties (618–1276), partially presenting a different spatial logic from the pagoda, and bringing a new visual experience. In my opinion, although the pavilion may not necessarily be as large as the pagoda in terms of volume and absolute height, it can provide believers with greater visual impact in the internal space for worship, due to the cross-story giant Buddhist statues; the closer integration of Buddha statues and architecture makes it replace or share the core position of the pagoda in some monasteries and even become the visual center of the entire religious space. Due to the existence of the pavilion, viewers can not only worship the Buddhist statues on a two-dimensional plane or by looking up at the statues from the bottom, but have also gained a three-dimensional perspective, to worship directly at the Buddha’s shoulders, neck, and head. In the Buddhist grottoes, the layout of the early single-layer or multi-layer horizontally distribution of caves on cliff was also changed due to the excavation of the cross-layer giant statue grottoes, covered by multi-story pavilion-style buildings, providing viewers with a visual experience similar to that of the pavilions of great statues. Additionally, there is a new visual experience of worshiping the Buddha in a vertical circle, in cases such as Bamiyan and the Leshan Giant Buddha.

Visits to the Palace of the Sea God in Ancient and Medieval Japan

Visits to the palace of the sea god are a recurring theme in premodern Japanese narratives, and comparing these stories across time periods reveals shifting perceptions of the supernatural world. The earliest sources for narratives of travel to the palace of the sea god in Japan date from the eighth century, most notably in the stories of Luck of the Mountain and Urashima Tarō. In these stories, the descriptions of the sea god’s palace, the relationship of the sea god to the natural world, and even the location of the palace were tied to eighth-century understandings of kingship, weather, and geography. Later adaptations of these stories incorporate features of Buddhist geography, Chinese architecture, Buddhist narrative motifs, and even an alternative vision of supernatural time. These alterations occurred because the eighth-century narratives required adaptation to fit a new political, social, and religious reality. This comparison demonstrates that our vision of the supernatural world is inextricably tied to our understanding of the natural. When our fundamental grasp of the nature of reality changes, our imagination of the supernatural transforms in turn.

Mechanism for formation of porcine blood hydrogels used as additives in the mortar of traditional Chinese architectural painting

Ancient Chinese architecture drawing is a unique form of ancient Chinese art. Porcine blood hydrogels are distinctive ingredients used to prepare the composite material of the substrate layer for architecture drawing. This investigation was focused on the mechanism for porcine blood hydrogel formation. Based on the traditional Chinese recipe for the preparation of porcine blood-lime mortar, samples with different ratios of porcine blood and lime water were prepared, and the molecular-scale interactions between the lime water and proteins in the porcine blood were examined with FTIR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, XRD, XPS, fluorescence spectroscopy, contact angle and rheology studies. The mechanical properties and morphological features of the samples were detected with a rheometer, universal material testing machine and SEM. The results indicated that an appropriate amount of lime water was required for gelation of the porcine blood. With the appropriate alkalinity, sufficient carboxyl groups on the fibrin chains were deprotonated, and coordination with Ca2+ ions formed enough cross-links for support networks within the structure of the porcine blood hydrogel. Complexation of deprotonated carboxyl groups on the fibrin chains with Ca2+ ions led to the formation of a hydrophobic surface due alterations of the fibrin conformation and increased the adhesive properties of the hydrogel. With the hydrogel used as an ingredient in the preparation of a substrate layer composite, it is suggested that the hydrophobic surface of the hydrogel facilitated mixing with hydrophobic tung oil during preparation of the composite material, and strong adhesion of the hydrogel increased the mechanical strength and crack resistance of the substrate layer.

Theoretical formation in the field of critique: a critical reading of Chinese architectural anti-waste campaign in 1955

ABSTRACT This study appraises the ideological criticism that emerged in the Chinese architectural sphere during the anti-waste campaign of 1955, which marks a pivotal moment in the history of modern Chinese architecture. Within this timeframe, architects and architectural scholars such as Chen Gan, Shui Fengman, and Liu Dunzhen, respectively questioned, defended, and criticized Liang Sicheng’s architectural ideas. Their articles were published in prominent Chinese publications including People’s Daily, Wenyi Bao [Art News], Jianzhu Xuebao [Journal of Architecture], and Xin Jianshe [Journal of New Construction]. By delving deep into the conceptual framework and the logical structure of these long-neglected critique articles, this study unveils the intricate debates in Chinese architectural practice and theoretical concepts during the 1950s. The findings highlight that the ideological critique during the anti-waste campaign not only reflects the infiltration of politicized rhetoric into the architectural domain but also assumes a profound significance in terms of the early attempts of Chinese architects to re-evaluate architectural historiography through the lens of Marxist theory. This pivotal event laid the foundation for the gradual formation and consolidation of a series of discursive patterns within the Chinese architectural community, exerting a lasting influence on contemporary architectural discussions and writings in multifarious ways.

China-aided conference buildings in developing countries: a mosaic analysis of database

ABSTRACT The China-aided conference building has garnered global attention due to its diplomatic implications, symbolic representation, iconic stature, and bilateral cultural expression. These constructions play a significant role in the cross-cultural communication of Chinese architecture under the One Belt and One Road Initiative (BRI). Despite the prevalence of such buildings with China’s aid, there exists a substantial gap in the systematic and comprehensive research on this topic. This study constructed a database of 157 China-aided conference buildings, spanning from 1962 to 2022. This data was subsequently analyzed by a mosaic approach, employing a model of six indicators across two dimensions: macro characteristics and building ontology. The results indicate that the macro-distribution characteristics mirror China’s trends in international cooperation and development and are closely tied to China’s political policies and economic conditions. Chinese architects exhibit eclectic expressions, incorporating modern architectural language, local culture, and Chinese architectural culture. These findings also highlight the ongoing evolution of the Chinese architectural knowledge system. This research complements Chinese architecture and China’s aid, offering designers, researchers, and policymakers in cross-border architecture a comprehensive perspective and design trends of China-aided conference buildings. This is particularly beneficial for the cross-cultural communication of overseas architectural cooperation under the BRI.

On the Application of Digitized Virtual Reality Technology in the Teaching of Landscape Architecture Design

Landscape garden design is an important design foundation course for undergraduate students of landscape architecture in China, but the current classroom teaching has the problem of limited spatial dimension of the course. This paper proposes a virtual scene model construction method through the computer software with the creation of the need to display the scene. This virtual reality technology has immersive, interactive, and risqué characteristics. This paper focuses on the key points of virtual reality technology, discusses the specific implementation method of virtual reality technology in the “landscape garden design” course, and introduces the interactive control principle. The results of the research show that virtual reality technology to assist teaching can cultivate students' spatial thinking and enhance students' spatial simulation experience, greatly reducing the cost of traditional teaching.