Quantitative Comparison of Space Syntax in Regional Characteristics of Rural Architecture: A Study of Traditional Rural Houses in Jinhua and Quzhou, China

Abstract

In China’s rural renewal, the regional characteristics of rural traditional houses are often ignored. Local governments and real estate developers have distorted the perception of traditional buildings, damaging their sustainability. This paper analyzes the traditional rural houses of Jinhua and Quzhou, Zhejiang, China, based on space syntax. Its objective is to demonstrate concretely the regional characteristics of architecture through quantitative analysis. By summarizing the comparison of various variables, these characteristics can be further expressed. This will allow us to better understand the wishes of local residents for living space in a more accurate and quantified manner. As the subject of this study, 34 typical buildings are examined in 19 villages. According to the analysis of the RA, integration, and control values of space syntax, each room in these buildings is calculated. The courtyard, the hall, and the main room are chosen as the principal research areas. In addition, the exterior space is considered to be a key factor. As a result of this study, it is found that rural traditional houses in Jinhua and Quzhou have their own regional characteristics. These characteristics are presented as differences between the above-noted spaces in different comparative analyses and are consistent with the actual situation. It enables the rural traditional houses to be scientifically and quantitatively analyzed, which can be helpful for architectural renewal. As a consequence, it is possible to support the sustainability of rural buildings using data analysis, as well as safeguard the personalized rights and interests of local residents regarding housing.

A Study on Recommendations for Improving Minimum Housing Standards

“…This standard pertains to the facilities that residents must have while living in houses. We focused on the following facilities: (1) kitchen, (2) toilet, (3) bathing facility, (4) water supply facilities, (5) sewer system (septic tank), (6) heating systems, (7) fuel for cooking, (8) entrance (front door), and (9) fire-fighting appliances.…”

“…As the housing policy has focused more on welfare, there has been a need to create comfortable residential environments, apart from the supply of sufficient housing. The necessity for housing that satisfies minimum housing standards has been the most important factor, because if the stability and comfort of housing are not guaranteed, people would have to continuously live with anxiety [1][2][3][4][5][6]. Under these circumstances, minimum housing standards were provided for people to live in comfortable and stable residential environments, resulting in the establishment of standards regarding room configuration, area, essential facilities, and structure/performance/environment for the first time.…”