Traditional Construction Techniques Of Beijing Courtyards

     The traditional construction techniques of Beijing courtyard houses (Siheyuan) are one of the representatives of traditional wooden structure construction techniques in northern China. They have profound cultural heritage and unique architectural features. Siheyuan is the basic unit of the old city of Beijing. It established its pattern in the Yuan Dynasty and formed its unique architectural form in the Ming and Qing dynasties. This kind of building is not only a living form made of bricks and tiles, but also a concentrated expression of Chinese traditional culture.

     The technical characteristics of the courtyard house are reflected in the following aspects:
1. Layout design: Siheyuan mostly adopts a symmetrical layout with an obvious central axis. The buildings have clear priorities and staggered heights, reflecting the characteristics of patriarchal rituals.
2. Building structure: The building of a courtyard house is mainly composed of three parts: foundation, wall, and roof, with wood as the main support and skeleton structure.
3. Material use: Traditional materials include wood, tiles, stone, bricks, etc.
4. Decorative art: The wooden decorations such as doors, windows and partitions in courtyard houses are artistic masterpieces with unique national characteristics. The decorative themes are rich, such as the pattern composed of bat and longevity, which means "good fortune and longevity".

5. Construction process: The construction process is complicated and the craftsmanship is exquisite, which can be seen from the "eight major works" such as large woodwork, small woodwork, tile work, stone work, soil work, paint work, woodwork, and paper work.
6. Cultural connotation: The construction of the quadrangle pays attention to the Feng Shui theory, which reflects the ancient Chinese architectural environment. At the same time, the decoration, carvings, paintings and other details reflect the folk customs and traditional culture.
7. Social significance: Siheyuan reflects the status and class differences of family members through the location, orientation, width, and height of the building, reflecting the ethical connotation of family organization in traditional society.
8. Intangible cultural heritage: On May 23, 2011, the traditional construction techniques of Beijing courtyards were included in the national intangible cultural heritage list.

9. Modern inheritance: Although the architectural methods of modern society have changed, the traditional construction techniques of Beijing courtyards are still protected and passed on, becoming an important way to study and experience Chinese ancient architectural culture.
     The traditional construction techniques of courtyard houses not only reflect the aesthetics and practicality of the building, but also carry rich cultural and historical information. They are a valuable asset of traditional Chinese architectural culture.