Construction of dwellings and structures in ancient China

Abstract

Construction works, which contributed to the built environment of the primitive, slave and feudal societies in ancient China, constitute an important component of Chinese history. This paper discusses the nest and cave dwellings as well as the tools used in the primitive society (before 2100 BC) of China. Construction works in the Slave Society (2100‐500 BC) encompassed the construction of city walls as well as wood and earth structures, covering roofs, wall and floor facing, and drainage facilities. The invention of new building materials and construction tools as well as standardization in working procedures and material consumption are discussed in “Feudal society” (221 BC‐AD 1840). The paper suggests that the more than 5,000 years of rich history of construction works in China should not be ignored.

Citation

Sui Pheng, L. (2001), "Construction of dwellings and structures in ancient China", Structural Survey, Vol. 19 No. 5, pp. 262-274. https://doi.org/10.1108/02630800110412859