Reflections on rural spatial construction based on place identity: A case study of spatial reconstruction in Xiaoshi village, Pengzhou

With increasing urbanization, rural areas face challenges, such as the loss of local distinctiveness and weakened community identity among villagers. Reconstructing place identity has thus become pivotal to rural revitalization. By reviewing China’s century-long trajectory of rural construction, this study examines the evolution of rural identity from deconstruction to reconstruction. This study also highlights present critical issues, including insufficient participation from villagers, spatial designs that are detached from production and daily life, and homogenized esthetics due to the misuse of traditional symbols. Place identity encompasses three dimensions: Socio-cultural significance, socio-economic functions, and a foundation of spatial imagery. Using Studio Dali’s practice in Xiaoshi village in Pengzhou, Sichuan, as a case study, this study proposes different approaches to reshaping public spaces, innovating industrial models, and expressing local character. Across the synergistic activation of space, economy, and culture, place identity can be effectively rebuilt, stimulating endogenous vitality in rural construction.