Siheyuan

A siheyuan (Chinese: 四合院; [sɹ̩̂.xɤ̌.ɥɛ̂n];Sìhéyuàn) is a traditional Chinese architectural style characterized by a courtyard enclosed by buildings on all four sides. This design was prevalent throughout northern China, notably in Beijing and rural Shanxi. Historically, siheyuan served as the foundational layout for various structures, including residences, palaces, temples, monasteries, family businesses, and government offices.

Siheyuan originated in the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE) and became popular during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties. A spacious siheyuan would be occupied by a single, usually large and extended family, signifying wealth and prosperity. Today, remaining siheyuan are often still used as subdivided housing complexes, although many lack modern amenities.

As a courtyard surrounded by buildings on all four sides, siheyuan is also rendered in English as courtyard houses and Chinese quadrangles.