# Reinforced Traditional Chinese Houses O-Office Architects Uses Concrete & Steel for This Abode By Kalin Ned | Published 2018-07-03 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/traditional-chinese-house References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2018/07/03/o-office-architects-courtyard-house-china-architecture/) & [o-officearch](http://www.o-officearch.com/) Local firm O-Office Architects uses the traditional Chinese house for the backbone of its design for a living abode in Guangzhou. In particular, the practice bases the framework of the project on Lingnan buildings but adds a modern twist — instead of wood for the roof and structural columns, O-Office Architects uses steel and reinforced concrete. The focal point of the space is a [courtyard with a pond](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/red-rock) that makes for a nice space for relaxation and contemplation. The architectural studio arranges [paved brick pathways](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/terracotta-breath) that wind around the outdoor space and connect the different units of the building. With respect to the restrictions of the plot and culturally relevant factors, O-Office Architects arranges its reinterpretation of a traditional Chinese house around the principles of Feng Shui. Photo Credits:[Chaos Z](http://cargocollective.com/ZCSTUDIO) ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.4/10 - Popularity: 79% | Activity: 44% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Home](https://www.trendhunter.com/home) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Reinforced Traditional Chinese Houses:** Using concrete and steel instead of wood, this innovative design approach strengthens the traditional Chinese house structure. - **Courtyard as Focal Point:** Creating a central courtyard with a relaxing pond provides a tranquil space for contemplation in modern Chinese house designs. - **Fusion of Tradition and Modernity:** By combining traditional architectural elements with modern materials and techniques, designers can create a harmonious balance between the past and present. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture and Design:** Architects and designers can unlock disruptive innovation by reimagining traditional building techniques and materials for contemporary structures. - **Construction and Materials:** The use of reinforced concrete and steel in traditional Chinese house designs presents opportunities for construction and material companies to provide innovative solutions. - **Outdoor Spaces and Landscaping:** Creating appealing courtyards with ponds and paved pathways opens up new possibilities for landscapers and outdoor space designers to blend tradition and creativity. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Rustic Warm Homey Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mothers-house.md) - [Lighthouse-Functioning Concrete Structures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/concrete-pavilion.md) - [Floating Courtyard Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/baan-oo.md) - [Taiwanese Steel Metal Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/double-roof-house.md) - [Tranquil Courtyard Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sanctum-house.md) - [Unconventional Chinese Housing Estates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/longnan-garden.md) - [Revised Concrete Set Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dogtrot.md) - [Lantern-Like Tea House Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tea-house-pavilion-1.md) - [Open-Air Perforated Concrete Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/anchor-house.md)