Architecture that connects generations.
His thesis explores intergenerational housing in central Beijing: a courtyard community that brings retirement living and a kindergarten together around a preserved heritage siheyuan.
01 — The site
Old houses, older residents.
In the centre of Beijing, a block of worn single-storey houses sits among new towers. Most of the people who live here are elderly. Hidden among the houses is a protected siheyuan, a reminder of how the city once lived: around a courtyard, under open sky.
02 — The idea
The siheyuan, grown up.
City-centre density usually means towers, and towers erase the courtyard. Here the siheyuan itself grows into a denser form. The heritage house becomes the front door; low-rise homes wrap a chain of courtyards, and light wells bring a courtyard to every home on every floor.
03 — Two generations
Two routes, one courtyard.
A kindergarten is woven into the retirement community. Children and elders start on separate routes, each safe and suited to its own pace. Then the routes meet: calligraphy in the library, chess by the pond, vegetable beds on the roof, swimming in the pool.
04 — At home
Every home keeps its courtyard.
45 homes for 100 residents, gathered around 9 courtyards, 7 lounges, 3 restaurants and a library. Full-height glass opens each room to trees, gravel and sky.