Songyang Story - Architectural Acupuncture as Driver for Socio-Economic Progress in Rural China. Projects by Xu Tiantian, DnA-Beijing

Xu Tiantian's Architectural Acupuncture concept aims to revitalize rural areas by renovating production plants, tourist infrastructure, creating cultural and educational venues, and providing social housing. This book showcases 20 new buildings and conversions in Songyang County, China, and examines the social, political, and economic implications of sustainable planning and collective action.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2020
Publisher: Park Books

In 2014, Xu Tiantian, the founder of Beijing-based studio Design and Architecture (DnA), embarked on a transformative journey in Songyang County, located in China's Zhejiang Province. With a visionary holistic planning concept known as Architectural Acupuncture, she garnered the support of local administrative and political leaders, aiming to revitalize rural areas. This comprehensive approach encompasses the renovation of production plants, tourist and technical infrastructure, the creation of cultural and educational venues, and the provision of social housing. Each of Xu's small-scale interventions at the local level is unique, while the limited budget is a common thread binding them together. Moreover, these interventions are interrelated, forming a cohesive whole that serves the overarching goal of mutual enhancement.

This book introduces Xu's concept of Architectural Acupuncture and delves into the profound influence of architecture on cultural self-understanding and economic renewal in 21st-century rural China. It showcases a collection of approximately 20 new buildings and conversions of existing structures, each with diverse functions. Accompanying the book are essays by international economists, sociologists, and curators, as well as the secretary of the Songyang County Party Committee, examining the social, political, and economic implications of sustainable planning and collective action in the Chinese province.

Xu's Architectural Acupuncture concept revolves around the idea of revitalizing rural areas through a multi-faceted approach. By renovating production plants, she aims to enhance local economies by promoting industrial growth and creating job opportunities. Similarly, the development of tourist and technical infrastructure fosters tourism and technological advancements, contributing to the region's economic development. Moreover, the creation of cultural and educational venues fosters cultural exchange and knowledge dissemination, promoting a sense of community and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

In addition to economic revitalization, Xu's interventions prioritize social housing. By providing affordable housing solutions, she addresses the issue of housing inequality and ensures that people have access to basic necessities. This not only improves the living conditions of individuals but also strengthens the social fabric of the community.

One of the key aspects of Xu's approach is her emphasis on community participation and collaboration. She involves local residents and stakeholders in the planning and implementation process, ensuring that the interventions align with their needs and aspirations. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, leading to greater sustainability and long-term benefits.

The book showcases a diverse range of buildings and structures that exemplify Xu's Architectural Acupuncture concept. These include renovated factories, cultural centers, educational facilities, and social housing complexes. Each project is carefully designed to blend functionality with aesthetics, creating spaces that are both functional and visually appealing.

The essays in the book provide valuable insights into the social, political, and economic implications of sustainable planning and collective action in rural China. They explore the challenges faced by rural communities, such as economic stagnation, population decline, and environmental degradation, and discuss how architectural interventions can address these issues. The authors highlight the role of government policies, community engagement, and private sector participation in fostering sustainable development and promoting social well-being.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of Xu Tiantian's concept of Architectural Acupuncture and its profound impact on cultural self-understanding and economic renewal in 21st-century rural China. Through a series of innovative architectural interventions and essays, it sheds light on the potential of architecture to shape the future of rural communities and promote sustainable development.

Weight: 2072g
Dimension: 301 x 297 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783038601869