It seems clear that the remains of architecture alone don’t preserve the cultural spirits that help bond communities together. After all, the significance of cultural spaces is so much more than the exterior structures.
They are a living imprint of history. They are about the lives of people and the generations of needs for humanity. The same goes for Hutongs. Hutongs(胡同) have been recognized as one of the most treasured types of vernacular housing in China, documenting the cultural and historical transformation in Beijing ever since the Yuan Dynasty (1271 – 1368).
Thus, while protecting Hutong’s architectural integrity and raising heritage protection awareness among government officials and the general public, it is also critical that we begin to reestablish an improved residential environment that is adequate to serve the rich cultural heritage preserved through these historical sites.
There are a few aspects to this approach:
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- Material needs. Help build solution-oriented neighborhood council. Council facilitates town hall meetings, community-building events, and skill-based workshops that focus on addressing tangible living concerns. Council members include architecture experts, historical scholars, government officials, community representatives, and volunteers.
- Emotional connection. Through cultural awareness campaigns and long-term educational programs, empower community members to be co-producers of knowledge in documenting and revitalizing the disappearing Hutong culture in a modern Beijing.
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