A Study on the Concepts of Harmony Embodied in the Ancient Chinese Architecture

This book explores the core concept of Chinese ancient architecture from a multidisciplinary perspective. It aims to contribute to the development, inheritance, and protection of Chinese ancient architectural culture, while also benefiting the sustainable development of modern architecture. This book follows a main line of inquiry, exploring the rich and harmonious ideas present in Chinese ancient architecture. It combines the traditional Chinese culture and architectural ideas, and examines the original thought that forms the foundation of the traditional Chinese architectural culture of “harmony” from various aspects. Firstly, the book describes the Taoist theory of the harmony between man and nature, as expressed through different architectural elements. Secondly, it discuses the system of harmony among people influenced by Confucianism. Lastly, it explores the significance of Buddhism in Buddhist architecture. Finally, it also examines the difference in the emodiment of harmonious ideas between Chinese and Western architectures. This book studies and analyzes the type and characteristics of Chinese ancient architecture, the architectural objects, and the simple ecological environment views contained within the architectural concept. It not only analyzes the historical development context, but also provides physical examples of architectural types, and explores the influence of regional environmental factors. The target audience for this book includes scholars in universities and scientific research departments, particularly those studying architectural aesthetics, history and philosophy, it is also suitable for the ordinary readers who have interest in Chinese traditional architectural culture.