Layout of Traditional Courtyard Buildings in China

The courtyard group and layout of ancient buildings in China are generally designed symmetrically along the longitudinal axis (also known as the front and rear axis) and the horizontal axis. The more important buildings are placed on the vertical axis, and the secondary houses are placed on its left and right sides on the horizontal axis. The group layout of the Forbidden City in Beijing and the northern quadrangles is the typical example that best embodies this principle of group layout. This layout is closely related to the patriarchal clan system and the ethical code system in China feudal society. According to the feudal patriarchal clan system and hierarchical concepts, such as seniority, men and women, masters and servants, it is most convenient to make obvious differences in housing.