Project Summary
From southern China, this entry makes
a compelling case for reinterpreting the
traditional building culture. An innovative
translation of a historical house
typology to a series of modern dwellings
is proposed for the city center.
Ecologically, the project is merited for
its sensitive deployment of low-cost
natural resources, reactivating the
manufacture of low-tech, handmade
structures, and the use of recycled
materials. By promoting the use of local
materials and traditional craftsmanship,
the buildings require less maintenance,
have a smaller impact on
the environment, and are more energy
efficient. In this sense, a balance is
struck between nature and human
occupation. A feasible economic solution
is presented that could serve to
stimulate employment and development
in the region. Also merited is the
combination of vernacular techniques
of construction and contemporary
tectonic expression, a synthesis that
is aesthetically rich.