Chinese Architecture

Duogong

• complex bracket system made of interlocking wooden components

• found under eaves; supports the roof and allows for flexibility during earthquakes

Siheyuan

• traditional courtyard residence

• comprises buildings on four sides surrounding a central courtyard

Paifang/Pailou

• ornamental archways or gateways often seen at entrances to temples, tombs, or cities

• symbolic and decorative, often inscribed with calligraphy

Yingbi / Zhaobi

• screen wall placed inside or outside the entrance of a building or courtyard

• blocks direct view into the interior for privacy and to ward off spirits

Qilou

• southern chinese architectural style with a covered walkway in front of the building

• common in commercial districts in guangdong and fujian

Wudian Ding

• roof style with five ridges; one main ridge and four vertical ridges

• often seen in high status buildings like palaces

Xieshan Roof

• popular roof style with a combination of gable and hip elements

• common in major buildings, indicating higher rank or importance

Luohan Wall

found in buddhist temples often decorated with sculptures of arhats, symbolic buddhist figures

Caisson Ceiling

• intricately carved sunken ceiling often found in temples or palaces

• symbolizes heavens and is placed above thrones or statues of deities

Panlong

coiled dragon motif used in architectural decoration, symbolizing imperial power

The Great Wall of China

• extensive system of forts, watchtowers, and walls to protect chinese states and empires against invasions.

• Symbol of strength, heritage, and building expertise

The Forbidden City

• world’s largest palace complex

• the political and ceremonial center of china for hundreds of years

• main buildings face south to respect the sun, which is important in Chinese culture.

Temple of Heaven

• annual prayer ceremonies to heaven for fruitful harvest

• largest existing sacrificial building complex in china

• situated south of the forbidden city representing harmony with nature and balance

Li Jie

• author of the architectural treatise yingzao fashi, a detailed manual of building standards and construction methods in imperial china

• One of the earliest known architectural theorists in chinese history

Social Influence

• Family structure

• Community and collective living

• Political Authority

• Religious and Spiritual beliefs

Political Influence

Reflects the centralized power of emperors with grand palaces that symbolizes imperial authority

North China

• cold winter and dry climate

• Enclosed houses

• Thick walls and inward facing layouts to keep warmth inside

South China

• warm and humid

• Raised floors, sloped roofs and open courtyards for airflow