Basic features

Every Chinese structure is based on the principle of balance and symmetry also known as feng shui (wind and water), a form of geomancy which considers how buildings have to be positioned so as not to perturb the spiritual features of the adjacent landscape.

Office buildings, residences, temples, palaces, entire cities and underground tombs follow the principle that the main structure is the axis. The secondary structures are positioned as two wings on either side to form the main room and yard.

The distribution of interior space reveals Chinese social and ethnical values, particularly the family members based on its hierarchy. Furthermore, they are favorably orientated according to points on the compass and protected from local "unlucky directions" by other buildings, walls, hills, mountain ranges, water or even a sculpted army.

The Chinese architectural style is generally divided in Monumental architecture and Domestic architecture. Both of them are guided by similar principles, but also have to serve for practical requirements, including the local weather, the ready availability of materials or even political concerns.

Chinese architecture

Monumental architecture

Religious architecture

Domestic architecture

Modern architecture