Self-built Lightweight Components in Traditional Villages:a Case Study of Sanjiadian Village in Mentougou District,Beijing
In recent years,the preservation of the architectural style in traditional villages has received increasing attention.However,self-built structures within these villages are often regarded as temporary and incongruent with the architectural aesthetics,leading to their clearance.The functional demands of these self-built components are often overlooked.Therefore,this paper aims to analyze the phenomenon of self-built lightweight components in Sanjiadian Village,Mentougou District,Beijing,focusing on their functionality,construction methods,and the collaborative relationships among villagers.The study reveals that self-built structures emerge as a response to the villagers'daily needs and serve purposes such as sun shading,clothes drying,and supporting plant growth.These structures are often constructed using temporary materials such as polycarbonate panels,thin wooden strips and steel wires,forming lightweight and temporary components and eaves spaces.They appear on building facades or in between houses,creating micro landscapes and fostering neighborhood connections.The construction methods employed by villagers are simple,rustic,and easily dismantled,showcasing their practicality.The findings of this study provide insights for the design and renovation of new rural houses by incorporating the functionality and construction methods of these components.
traditional villagelightweight componentsself-builtconstruction methods