Chinese Architecture

Chinese architecture reflects

the country's cultural values
and aesthetic ideals, which
are deeply rooted in its
history. These values include
harmony with nature,
bilateral symmetry, and Feng
Shui.
Use of enclosed open spaces,
a horizontal emphasis, and an
allusion to various
cosmological, mythological or
in general symbolic elements

.
Chinese Architecture
Features of Chinese
architecture:

 Courtyards Siheyuan
were a key part of
official and clan
compounds.
• Hierarchical layouts:
Hierarchical layouts
were used in palaces to
reflect the emperor's Walled enclosures
power and authority. The buildings are enclosed by walls and corridors to
create a closed structure
Chinese hierarchical palace
layouts Courtyards
Central axis Individual buildings are grouped to form courtyards,
The main buildings and subsidiary buildings which are then combined to create complex building
are arranged along east-west lines, with ensembles
the central axis running north-south
Three-gateway entrances
Symmetrical design The central gateway is for important people, while the
The layout of the outer court is smaller gateways on either side are for less important
symmetrical, with the inner court at the people
rear

Zoomorphic ornaments .
The number and size of the animals on the
roofs of buildings indicate the status of the
Chinese Architecture
Examples of Chinese hierarchical palace
layouts

The Forbidden City Qianqinggong Kunninggong

Located in Beijing, this The Palace of Heavenly The Palace of Female
palace compound is a Purity, which was the Tranquility, which was
model of ancient emperor's living quarters the empress's
Chinese palace apartments
construction. It features and office
a central axis,
symmetrical design,
and walled enclosures.

.
Chinese Architecture
Features of Chinese
architecture:

• Wooden construction:
Wood was often used
in Chinese
architecture, but it is a
relatively perishable
material. Wood was
chosen for its
How was wood used?
flexibility, light weight,  Wooden posts and beams
and abundance in the  Dougong structure: The dougong
region's thick forests. structure is a system of wooden brackets
that transfer the weight of the roof to the
Why was wood used? columns.
 Clay foundation: Buildings were often
 Flexibility: to create spacious interiors.
built on a clay foundation.
 Earthquake resistance  Glazed tiles: The roofs were covered with
 Cost glazed tiles, often in a traditional Chinese
yellow color

.
Chinese Architecture
Features of Chinese
architecture

• Rooflines: Rooflines are an

essential component of
Hiplegacy.
China's architectural roofs
Chinese architecture Five-ridged hip roof: Also known as the wǔdiàn dǐng or
uses a variety of fudian roof, this roof has five ridges.
rooflines, including hip Nine-ridged xieshan roof: Also known as the xiēshān dǐng,
roofs, gable roofs, and this roof has nine ridges.
curved roofs. The Gable roofs
rooflines are often used Overhanging gable roof: A variation on the traditional
in combination with gable roof.
other features, such as Double-eaved gable roof: A variation on the traditional
eaves, rafters, and tiles gable roof.
Gable-hip roof: A combination of a gable roof and a hip
Roofs in Chinese roof.
architecture are important Curved roofs
because they protect Temple roofs: Curved roofs were used on temples to ward
buildings from the off evil spirits.
elements and can have Eave tiles: Curved tiles were used at the eaves of roofs to
deeper meanings. help water drain.
.
Chinese Architecture
Features of Chinese
architecture

• Gardens: Chinese gardens

were meticulously designed
and were an important part
of clan and official
Acompounds.
traditional Chinese garden
utilizes elements like water and
rock to reflect the natural
landscape, along with plants
and other structures. Gardens
were used for both recreation
and contemplation.

.
Chinese Architecture

Features of Chinese
architecture
• Intricate carvings: Palaces
were designed with
Intricate carvings in
intricate carvings.
Chinese art include
wood carvings,
hardstone carvings,
and stone carvings.

• Majestic halls: Palaces

were designed with
Majestic halls in Chinese architecture
majestic halls.
are large halls in palaces that are
used for ceremonies and official
business. The Forbidden City in
Beijing, China is an example of a
Chinese palace with majestic halls.
.
Chinese Architecture
Features of Chinese
architecture

• Expansive courtyards:
Palaces were designed
with expansive courtyards.

Influences on Chinese Taoist philosophy influenced the

architecture use of feng shui, which is still used
today.
Confucianism: Confucianism, Confucianism: Influenced ancient
Chinese architecture to reflect the
Taoism, and Buddhism
principle of "unity between man and
influenced ancient Chinese nature
architecture. Yin and Yang: A concept that
Philosophical beliefs: emphasizes balance and
Philosophical beliefs harmony with nature
influenced ancient Chinese
Chinese Architecture
Historical
Development

Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE)

• Introduction of palatial structures and city
planning.
• Wooden frameworks became prominent.
• Confucian ideals influenced symmetry and
hierarchy.
Chinese Architecture
Historical
Development

Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE)

• Widespread use of tile roofing and decorative
elements like dragons.
• Expansion of city planning, with emphasis on walled
cities.
• Early
A pagoda examples
is a tiered tower with of pagodas for Buddhist worship.
multiple eaves common to Thailand,
Cambodia, Nepal, China, Japan,
Korea, Myanmar, Vietnam, and other
parts of Asia.
 Chinese Architecture
Historical
Development
Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE)
• Flourishing of Buddhist architecture; large temples
and pagodas.
• Use of dougong (interlocking wooden brackets).
• Influence of Silk Road cultures on design and
ornamentation.
The influence of Silk Road
trade on architecture is
evident in the monumental
structures found along the
route, which showcase a
unique blend of Eastern
and Western architectural
styles.

A dougong is a system of wooden brackets used in Chinese

architecture to support overhanging roofs. The word dougong
translates to "cap (and) block".
Chinese Architecture
Historical
Development

Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE)

• Codification of architectural styles in manuals like
Yingzao Fashi. The Yingzao Fashi is a technical treatise on
architecture and craftsmanship written by the ancient Chinese author Li
Jie ( 李誡 ; 1065–1110)

• Development of elegant bridges and smaller, refined

structures.
 Chinese Architecture
Historical
Development

Ming (1368–1644 CE) and Qing (1644–1912 CE)

Dynasties
• Expansion of palaces and imperial architecture (e.g.,
Forbidden City).
• Use of vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and glazed tiles.
• Preservation of traditional styles while incorporating
influences from the West.
Chinese Architecture
Principles of Chinese
Architecture

Key Philosophical Influences

1. Confucianism: Emphasizes order,
hierarchy, and symmetry in
structures.
The Confucian Temple in Qufu,

The Temple of Heaven, and the Forbidden City.

 Chinese Architecture
Principles of Chinese
Architecture

Key Philosophical Influences

2. Daoism: Harmonizes architecture with nature, emphasizing
balance and tranquility. Daoism is a Chinese philosophy and religion
that emphasizes living in harmony with the universe. It's also known as
Taoism.

3. Buddhism: Inspired the creation of pagodas, temples, and

monasteries.
 Chinese Architecture
Characteristics of Chinese architecture

1.Balance and Harmony

 The main characteristic
of traditional Chinese
architecture is a strong
emphasis on balance and
harmony.
 This idea is inspired by
nature and seeks to
mimic the balance found
in nature within the built
The layout of this palace complex is carefully planned,
environment. with symmetrical structure and careful
 It is accomplished by alignment with Feng Shui principles. Its ageless
skillfully blending beauty is enhanced by the use of naturally occurring
materials like wood, stone, and clay, which also
structures into their highlight the idea of harmony with nature. This
surroundings and by building is a stunning example of Chinese
using natural elements architectural genius.
like wood, stone, and
clay.
 Chinese Architecture
Characteristics of Chinese architecture

2. Curved Roofs and

Upturned Eaves
 The prominence of curving
roofs and upturned eaves, is
a distinguishing feature of
Chinese architecture, is both
distinctive and profoundly
symbolic.
 These rooflines, which
resemble the soaring wings of
a bird in flight, have more Curved Roofs and the Upturned Eaves at the
than just aesthetic value. Temple of Confucius, Qufu
 They emphasize the spiritual The temple honours Confucius by displaying these
link between building and the distinctive architectural elements, emphasizing the
highest respect and admiration for his teachings.
well-being of its occupants by These rooflines are an essential component of
symbolising not just shelter China's architectural legacy since they not only
from the weather but also serve to preserve the holy space within but also
serve to represent the yearning for wealth and the
prosperity and good fortune.
flourishing of wisdom.
 Chinese Architecture
Characteristics of Chinese architecture

3. Feng Shui Principles

 Feng Shui principles, which are
fundamental to Chinese
architecture, serve as a design
inspiration.
 They are seen as necessary for
establishing peaceful
environments that promote a
good energy flow.
 In actuality, this frequently
entails placing structures in Feng Shui Principles at the Summer Palace, Beijing
relation to surrounding natural
features, such as mountains Its setting, orientation, and use of elements from
and rivers, in order to capitalise nature have all been thoughtfully designed to
promote harmony and improve the flow of good
on their beauty and maintain energy. The palace's placement in relation to
harmony. Kunming Lake and the nearby hills illustrates not
just an appreciation of nature but also the
significant effect of Feng Shui on ancient Chinese
architectural designers by fostering a serene and
uplifting setting.
 Chinese Architecture
Characteristics of Chinese architecture

4. Wooden Joinery
 Known for their complexity
and tenacity, hardwood
joinery methods are an
integral component of
Chinese architectural
workmanship.
 These methods allow
buildings to be built without Wood Joinery Detailing at the Yingxian Wooden
Pagoda, Shanxi
the use of nails or glue,
depending only on the Dating back over a millennium, it is a testament to
accuracy of interlocking the enduring strength and ingenuity of this
wooden components. construction method. The complex wooden joints
that hold the pagoda's high structure together
 Along with ensuring the
demonstrate the precision and skill of Chinese
structures' sturdiness, this artisans of the period.
precise work also exemplifies
the skill of traditional Chinese
carpentry.
Chinese Architecture
Characteristics of Chinese architecture

5. Courtyards
 Courtyards act as peaceful
escapes amidst busy
surroundings.
 These open areas, which
frequently include
meticulously designed
gardens, ponds, and artistic
features, offer a sense of
isolation and peace.
 Courtyards are Courtyards of the Hutongs of Beijing
fundamentally a balance These old residential neighbourhoods are known
between habitation and the by their courtyard homes, which give an escape
natural environment. from the city's hustle and bustle. These tranquil
interior courtyards encourage a sense of seclusion
and connection while highlighting the
incorporation of vegetation and traditional
decorating features. They serve as a live example
of the importance that courtyards have always
been to maintaining tranquilly in cities.
Chinese Architecture
Characteristics of Chinese architecture

6. Decorative Elements

 Decorative Elements:
Chinese architecture is
famous for its lavish
decorations, which include
complex carvings, bright
painted murals, and motifs
such as as dragons,
phoenixes, and lotus
flowers.
 These adornments not Decorative Elements of the Mogao Caves,
only add to the aesthetics, Dunhuang

but they also frequently These caves have a large collection of Buddhist
convey significant cultural sculptures, frescoes, and paintings that reflect the
and religious purpose. creativity and commitment of Chinese artisans.
Each artwork within these caves tells a tale
with significant religious and cultural
connotations, and collectively they
demonstrate the profound impact of
decorative elements in transmitting the
Chinese Architecture
Characteristics of Chinese architecture

7. Integration of Gardens

 A frequent characteristic of
Chinese architecture is the
seamless integration of
gardens and natural
elements.
 These intricately planned
gardens, which include water
features, carefully placed The Suzhou Classical Gardens
rocks, and an abundance of These gardens are carefully designed havens that
cultivated plants, are blend with the architectural elements, resulting in
evidence of thorough quiet and meditative areas. The presence of the
flowing water, elegantly placed rocks, and lush
planning. vegetation inside these gardens shows the
 This integration improves profound connection between nature and
the overall appearance and architecture in Chinese design, resulting in serene
ambience of the area. and visually appealing landscapes.
Chinese Architecture
Architectural Styles

Religious Architecture
· Buddhist: Pagodas, stupas, and large temple complexes.

· Daoist: Temples integrated with natural landscapes.

· Confucian: Ancestral halls and academies.

 Chinese Architecture
Architectural Styles

Residential Architecture
· Siheyuan in the north; Tulou
(earth buildings) in the south.
Siheyuan
Description: A courtyard house with four buildings arranged in a Siheyuan and Tulou are both
square traditional Chinese residential
Location: Common in northern China, especially Beijing buildings. Siheyuan are
Features: Enclosed, inward-facing, and shaded by overhanging courtyard houses common in
roofs northern China, while Tulou
Purpose: Designed to protect from harsh weather and to reflect are communal residences in
Confucian values Fujian and Guangdong.
Layout: The main house, two wing houses, and the opposite house
History: Has been the template for most Chinese architecture
Tulou
Description: A circular, fortified structure divided into many rings or
layers
Location: Primarily found in Fujian Province, China
Features: Built with defensive features and communal living
spaces
Purpose: Built by the Hakka people to escape frequent wars
Material: Built largely out of brick and earth
Chinese Architecture
Architectural Styles

Military Architecture
• Fortifications like the Great Wall of China.
• Watchtowers and city walls for defense.

The design of structures and spaces to meet military

defense needs. It focuses on functionality, safety, and
security, rather than aesthetics
Chinese Architecture
Influences and
Legacy

Global Influences
 Spread of Chinese architectural styles to Korea, Japan, and
Southeast Asia.
 Interaction with Western styles during the late Qing
dynasty.
Chinese Architecture
Influences and
Legacy
Modern Chinese Architecture
 Integration of traditional forms with contemporary materials
and techniques.
 Preservation of heritage structures alongside urban
development.
 Chinese Architecture
Key Examples of Chinese Architecture
1. Great Wall of China: Iconic defensive structure spanning multiple
dynasties.
2. Forbidden City (Beijing): Symbol of imperial power.
3. Temple of Heaven: A religious site showcasing symmetry and cosmic
alignment.
4. Lingyin Temple (Hangzhou): Example of Buddhist temple architecture.
5. Tulou (Fujian Province): Unique communal housing for Hakka
communities.
Chinese Architecture
Conclusion

Chinese architecture embodies harmony, hierarchy,

and deep philosophical meaning. It bridges
tradition and modernity, remaining a profound cultural
treasure.
End of Lesson
III