Theoretical framework and practical pathways for integrated spatial restoration of traditional villages: A case study of Goulan Yao village

As living heritage sites embodying agrarian civilization, traditional villages are increasingly challenged by spatial fragmentation and atomization due to urban-rural restructuring, rapid modernization, and intensified tourism development. There is an urgent need to explore how to implement structural reconstruction and systematic revitalization from a holistic perspective. Taking Goulan Yao village in Jiangyong county, Yongzhou city, Hunan province as a case study, this paper integrates landscape gene theory and pattern language method to construct a "dual-chain three-dimensional" identification framework. This framework supports a holistic spatial restoration logic of "core element identification-spatial alienation analysis-restoration pathway exploration". The research findings are as follows: (1) Based on the dual-chain three-dimensional identification framework, a spatial recognition system for Goulan Yao village is developed, encompassing architectural genes, totemic symbols, and layout genes. This system reveals the structural foundation necessary for holistic spatial restoration. (2) The current spatial alienation of the village manifests at three levels: the spatial vocabulary layer shows landscape commodification of material bases and symbolic abstraction of cultural imagery; the spatial syntax layer suffers from structural dislocation and disrupted compositional logic; and the spatial governance layer faces imbalanced power structures and fading subject consciousness. Collectively, these phenomena contribute to the gradual disintegration of spatial wholeness. (3) Drawing on the concept of gene inheritance, the paper proposes a three-phase pathway for holistic restoration: the gene replication phase focuses on reinstating spatial vocabulary and reconstructing semantic meanings; the gene translation phase restructures spatial syntax and integrates logical systems; and the gene regulation phase promotes endogenous remodeling of spatial governance and the return of local subjectivity, ultimately achieving systematic spatial reconstruction and cultural continuity. This study aims to provide theoretical insight and practical reference for the holistic restoration and living inheritance of traditional village spaces. It also offers new perspectives and strategies for the creative transformation and innovative development of outstanding Chinese cultural heritage.