Preliminary Study on Traditional Chinese Cob Buildings and Their Construction Techniques: a Case Study of Yaozhuang Township

This study focuses on cob construction as a traditional earthen building technique, examining the current status of cob architecture and techniques in China. The research is geographically limited to Yaozhuang Township, Jia County, Henan Province, and employs literature review, field surveys, and data analysis to systematically organize information. It summarizes the preservation status of cob buildings in Yaozhuang Township, presenting findings in illustrations and tables; documents craftsmen collaboration in cob construction; and analyzes spatial types and architectural details. A comparative study of vernacular and public building techniques is conducted. Data on construction processes, materials, traditions, and tools are collected and analyzed, alongside geometric measurements of cob walls. The study identifies two distinct spatial forms—cob dwellings and workshops—and illustrates two key wall construction techniques: "ba-shi" (reinforcement with long red stones) and horizontal cob wall jointing. These findings provide foundational data for improving cob construction and developing contemporary earthen building standards.