Spatial Traits in Transmutation: Morphological Analysis of Min-Hai Group Qilou in Towns and Townships

Abstract

Architectural cultural heritage is an important carrier of human civilization and a significant manifestation of regional culture in the physical space. The town and townships Qilou (arcade building) of Min-Hai group are characterized by their unique architectural forms and rich varieties of transformation, making them one of the important representatives of traditional architecture in southeastern coastal China. In recent years, academic attention to Qilou has been steadily increasing, with research covering both individual structures and street block clusters. Based on 1,266 Qilou analyzed,selected from Minnan, Chaoshan, and Leiqiong regions; single-story buildings accounts for 0-17%, two-story buildings 75%-80%, three-story buildings 7-20%, and four-story buildings1%; single-bay accounts for 86-94%, double-bay buildings 2-9%,three-bay buildings 2-3%, and multi-bay buildings 1-2%. This paper conducts a comparative analysis of these Qilou in terms of their planar form, façade scale, materials, detailed ornamentation, and overall façade form to explore the formal characteristics of the Min-Hai Qilou. The study reveals that the planar and façade forms, as well as the decorative styles of Qilou the three regions, exhibit a shift from concentrated prominence to dispersed subtlety, while regional identity features gradually emerge.