Characteristics of China Architecture

China has a long history and unique architecture. Some features of China architecture include wood structure, cornices on roofs, quadrangles, differences between north and south, garden architecture and landscape painting.

1, wood structure

An important feature of architecture in China is the use of wood structures. Traditional buildings in China use a lot of wood to build building frames, beams and columns and roof structures. These wooden structures usually adopt tenon-mortise structure, that is, the wood is connected by tenon-mortise, which makes the building have strong stability and durability.

2. Roof cornices

The roofs of buildings in China usually have cornices. The cornice refers to the cornice in front of the roof extending outwards, which plays a role in sheltering from the wind and rain. Cornices not only have practical functions, but also endow buildings with aesthetic feeling and unique appearance. The shape and size of cornices can reflect the status and style of buildings.

3. Siheyuan

Siheyuan is a common residential layout in traditional buildings in China. It is surrounded by four buildings with a courtyard in the middle. Siheyuan usually consists of main hall, annex hall and wing room, forming a closed space. The layout of quadrangles pays attention to coolness, ventilation and privacy, which also reflects the harmony and respect of China families.

4. North-South differences

There are some obvious differences between the buildings in the south and the north of China. Brick and wood structures are mostly used in southern buildings, and more attention is paid to introducing natural light and air circulation into buildings. Masonry structures are often used in northern buildings to cope with the cold climate and pay attention to thermal insulation.

5. Garden architecture

The garden architecture in China is considered as one of the treasures of China architecture. Traditional gardens in China pay attention to the combination of nature and man-made landscape, creating a unique sense of space and artistic conception. Garden buildings usually have elements such as small bridges and flowing water, rockery flowers and trees, giving people a pleasing and elegant feeling.

6. Integration of landscape painting

In China, landscape painting is often integrated into architectural design. Architects simulate the elements and artistic conception of landscape by means of layout, structure and decoration. For example, the courtyard design in architecture is similar to the landscape in landscape painting, and a beautiful landscape effect is created through geometric structure and architectural form.