Architectural characteristics of folk houses in southern Anhui

The architectural features of residential buildings in southern Anhui are high walls, deep courtyard, patio and four waters returning to the hall.

1. High-walled deep courtyard and inner courtyard: A remarkable feature of residential buildings in southern Anhui is the design of high-walled deep courtyard, which is not only the need for theft prevention, but also the need for mobile families suffering from displacement to gain a sense of psychological security. Surrounded by high walls, there are almost no tiles outside, only a narrow patio is used for lighting, ventilation and communication with the outside world.

2. Courtyard with four waters returning to the hall: The courtyard is another important feature of the houses in southern Anhui. The design of the patio makes rainwater flow from four roofs to the patio, commonly known as "four waters return to the hall" This design is not only beautiful, but also practical, which can prevent fire and block the spread of fire. The patio is also an important space for residents to live, light, ventilate and adjust the indoor temperature.

3. The layout of Huizhou ancient dwellings is compact. Because of the small land and large population, it is cramped to build a house on the flat land. The tall and closed outer wall is isolated from nature, but the patio will introduce nature and form a unique architectural style.