Beijing’s Cross-Cultural Architecture

5/31/2006

China is so rich in history and culture.  On a recent trip to Beijing, we were regaled with the vibrancy of Chinese history and art, still tangible and prevalent amid the bustle of the urban landscape.  The modern people of China still look to their roots and draw on their heritage of thousands of years for the daily touches that make them uniquely Chinese.  They point with esteem at where their ancestors have been and know deep within that their 21^st century lives are still grounded on the achievements of that past. 

With some degree of pride, we were told that a number of inventions, innovations, and studies that shaped our world actually originated from China. Although overshadowed by the German claim, the Chinese were actually the first to use a printing press, which explains why they have the earliest records in history.  In the field of astronomy, the Chinese were likewise the first ones to track the movement of the stars, which they basically used for planting cycles and predictions of personal fortune.  The Chinese were also the original users of gun powder, way before guns were even heard of.  But back then, its use was for entertainment and driving away evil spirits through fireworks and firecrackers. 

They also have one of the most interesting political histories. From their chain of dynasties and emperors, who built, re-built, and over-built structures and cities using unlimited resources and majestic tastes, comes the original Chinese flair, more than a thousand years in the making. This trait is evident in local beliefs and practices, such as employing colors and numbers to shore up the chances of good fortune, using imaginary creatures to ward of unwanted visitors, and arranging furniture to uphold a pleasant vibe in every room.

Yes, their customs and historical predilections have undoubtedly seeped into their unique architectural style.

Early Chinese archiecture was mainly dictated by the people’s belief in luck and the respect they accorded to their heirarchy of officials. These values dictated not merely the details of their structures, but also the configuration of the building, its spatial orientation, the design of the roof, the colors of every tile and niche, and most of all, the ornamental accents.  And with every generation of emperor, the layers of tradition grew.  Buildings turned grander, details were worked more minutely, and the people imbibed the tastes and traditions of their monarchs. 

Today, technology from the west is being introduced into Chinese architecture, transforming the once rural landscape extensively. The basic principles of Good chi are still maintained but the shapes and designs are varied and fascinating, especially now that they are erecting colossal buildings in line with the 2008 Olympic Games which they will be hosting. Nevertheless, this new stimulus has not led designers to completely leave out the true essence of Chinese architecture.

At this stage of their history, the Chinese are experimenting on the shiny, new structures of the west, but are simultaneously preserving the look and feel of their heritage buildings.  They are redoubling their efforts to restore the ancient temples and palaces, while building the gargantuan arenas of modern games. 

The preservaton of their culture is a priority. However, this does not stop them from making use of available technology to build for the future, creating a cross-cultural, inter-generational architecture, mixing the modern Western flavor with the traditional Chinese style.