• Journal of the Architectural Institute of Korea Planning & Design
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• v.35 no.12
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• pp.75-82
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• 2019

After 1840 the first opium war, that changed the social nature and living habitats in China. The purpose of this study is to observe the influence of the war on the plan layout of traditional Chinese residential houses in Beijing Siheyuan. To find out the changes that were made after 1840, and reservation of the past, the space syntax model is used to analyze different social contexts and also compare the ancient and modern residential buildings. The result of the study indicate the following: Before the war, the ancient Siheyuan people's way of life strictly abide by the hierarchy system; External emphasis shows the host's status. However, in modern times, the social status became equal, efficient and harmonious relationship internally, while externally, it arranged the orientation and position of buildings to adapt to the natural environment. However, the boundaries between family members and visitors the emphasis on the courtyard and respect for private life remain unchanged.

• Journal of the Korean association of regional geographers
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• v.15 no.1
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• pp.53-66
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• 2009

This study explores the geographic characteristics of Hutong(alleyways) in Beijing. The word 'Hutong' originated from the Mongolian language, pronounced 'hottog' and meaning 'well'. In ancient times, people tended to gather and live around wells. After liberation, Beijing witnessed a rapid development in urban construction. A large number of residential areas were established and the number of alleyways in the city increased to over 6,000 from about 3,000 before liberation. In recent years, with the city's further modernization, more and more tall buildings have appeared in Beijing while the number of alleyways has been decreasing. 'Siheyuans(quadrangles)' are buildings with unique architectural features in Beijing's alleyways. In recent year, Siheyuans are changing to guesthouses, shops, bars, souvenir shops, restaurants and so on. Especially Nanluoguxiang(alleyway) is becoming an attractive area for tourism and cultural creativity in the ancient capital Beijing. Since 1990, 25 Hutong districts are protected for historical preservation by the Beijing Municipal Government.