The evolution of functional organization in vernacular Gyalrong Tibetan houses: a quantitative investigation

Abstract

The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has many traditional dwellings that are suitable for research into architectural design. However, the current state of research on vernacular Tibetan houses is still limited by study regions, sample sizes, and historical perspective. By selecting 82 folk houses in the Gyalrong Tibetan area as study objects, this work aims to (1) record a fading tradition of vernacular architecture assisted by computer modelling and mathematical statistics; (2) analyse the historical evolution of the functional organization of the houses; and (3) explore the reasons for this evolution to give suggestions to contemporary architectural designers. The investigation reveals that (1) the evolution of the functional organization between old and new houses primarily includes an increase in the number of bedrooms and toilets and a decrease in the area of storage spaces and corrals and (2) the historical reasons for this evolution include changing concerns about defence, sanitation, and the tourism industry. Finally, suggestions for future house design are given in terms of the arrangement of building volume, the arrangement of central communication spaces, and the separation of spaces for landlords and guests.

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