On the differences of Southern and Northern architectures

On the differences of Southern and Northern architectures
Northern architecture and southern architecture belong to different systems with their own styles. When thinking about Southern architecture, many people picture beautiful scenery with delicate bridges over flowing rivers. Some small towns which still preserve their original features are very tranquil and picturesque, each with a small river flowing through them with little grey houses on their banks. Southern houses and yards are very small and lighted colored. Their gardens, though not big, are as beautiful as paradise.

Chinese Water Township Painting

Northern architecture, however, usually consists of large plain houses and yards. Their differences are only reflected in their size and the ornamentation of their gates.

Chinese Building Painting

Frankly speaking, southern houses look like villas, while northern houses are only apartments. When designing doors, windows and yards, northerners stress more exposure to the sunlight, while southerners emphasize proper ventilation. Northerners prefer their houses look solid and plain, a refection of their character. For example, when choosing building materials, they prefer bricks and stones. Southerners are partial to wooden structures because they provide more fresh air. In terms of room decorations, northerners usually employ blankets, colorful cloth and furs, because these materials make the room appear warm. However, if you do the same in the south, you will feel too hot, and furs tend to breed worms in the south. Southerners favor cooler materials like bamboo. The various architecture styles in China form a beautiful landscape and are a precious cultural legacy.

Chinese Water Township Painting