Analysis of Kiln Dwelling Buildings in Shouyang, Shanxi, China

This research analyzes four typical kiln dwellings in three traditional villages in Shaoyang County. Although kiln dwellings are the main architectural form in these villages, the architectural structures and courtyard features vary, all representing the conventional kiln dwellings of Jinzhong in Shanxi. The kiln site in Shouyang County of Jinzhong City is analyzed in detail by means of field investigation and data collection. Through on-site survey and interviews, the author documented the different types of kiln dwellings in Shouyang. The courtyards of kiln dwellings in Shouyang County mainly fall into three categories: subterranean pit kilns, cliff kilns, and courtyard-style kilns. The main feature is the integration of kilns and houses, with courtyard styles including kiln courtyards and compound courtyards, following a layout of axial symmetry. The dwellings reflect the traditional Chinese hierarchy of superiors and inferiors, with decorations combining practicality and aesthetics. This research provides a solid theoretical basis for further improving and enriching the theoretical achievements of traditional residential architecture in Jinzhong, and offers theoretical support for the protection, inheritance, and reuse of residential architecture in Shouyang.