The Research On The Characteristic Of Kong Xiangxi’s Courtyard

Traditional historic building is an important part of Chinese culture, of which various kinds of traditional dwellings is an essential part. With time passing by, the process of urbanization is developing rapidly, while the public’s awareness of the protection of traditional buildings are becoming increasingly weaker. Thus, under this reality, it is significant for us to preserve traditional dwellings so as to maintain their regional characteristic. Shanxi province, a place with a long history and solid cultural background has formed numerous groups of traditional dwellings which is full of regional features with the help of its unique natural environment and human environment. Not only are these traditional dwellings, which present distinctive architectural forms located in a beautiful environment but they reflect the unique human connotation and the deep cultural deposits as well.Kong Xiangxi’s Courtyard is located in Jinzhong district in Shanxi province, being part of Jinzhong local-style dwelling houses. Being a typical example of Shanxi business courtyard, it has a long history, which was built from the periods of Qianlong until the periods of Xianfeng. Its original owner is called Meng Ruzhen, the local gentry of Taigu. What’s more, Shanxi merchants’ culture and value are also well presented. However, the most precious thing of Kong Xiangxi’s Courtyard is that apart from being a typical example of Shanxi business courtyard, it also combines the characteristics of classical garden in southern China. This thesis consists of three parts. The first part is related to humanity containing background, overview and origin, etc. the second part mainly discusses its architectural space, structure and decoration characteristics. The third part is about its research value and influence.