Global Design: How a luxury hotel uplifts a Beijing hutong where locals still live

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Its maze-like grid of court buildings – separated by narrow alleyways called hutong – were once the residences of imperial inspectors, Peking opera performers and business owners, or institutions for imperial scholars. 

While many continue to value the hutong’s historical and architectural heritage, few locals actively seek out a home in these structures, preferring the conveniences of modern buildings. 

buildings were repurposed into eateries, cafes or shops selling snacks and souvenirs to tourists

To preserve the charm of residential life in a hutong, Mandarin Oriental and the Chinese government embarked on an eight-year joint venture partnership to convert selected vacant courtyard houses into hotel suites while preserving the essence of residential life.

JPJC Prelim 2024 on preservation of historic buildings...

Qns:

1. Only modern architecture and modern art have a place in today’s world. How far is this true of your society? (Cam. 2011)

2. Assess the view that traditional buildings have no future in your society. (Cam. 2016)