Modernization of Chinese Earth-Sheltered Dwellings

The proposed research project will be to visit survey and document post and modern cave dwellings, live in the villages, getting to know the local villagers and craftsmen, and engage in cross-cultural and interdisciplinary research. Through method of record, from measured drawings to statistical analysis, full scale details to test of structural performance or climate regulations, which we can apply to cave dwelling as a preparation for their application to more complex architecture. Through living together with local craftsmen and villagers, attending local rituals and customs, observing the village’s relationship to nature and cosmology, I hope to understand the meanings and symbolic roles of cave dwellings in society. To conclude my thesis study, I plan to renovate an abandoned cave dwelling; employing the lessons and experiences I gain during the research, and integrating modern amenities to the wise traditional ways of building.

Faculty Supervisor:

Anne Bordeleau

Student:

Partner:

Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: