With high walls, a single entrance point, and a lack of windows on ground level, Hakka houses were originally intended to protect those living within from the threats of 17th century China. However, in the 21st century, the Hakka house is being constructed with different goals in mind.

When commissioned to create a 220 apartment housing complex for those on a low income in Guangzhou, Chinese architects Urbanus reinterpreted the Hakka house to create an intimate atmosphere, rather than a defensive one. Whilst the form is traditional, the method of construction is a thoroughly modern affair, with Urbanus – unsurprisingly – declining to use rammed earth during construction.

Called ‘Tulou’, which literally means ‘little kingdom’, the project has been praised for its ‘graceful balancing act between historical and contemporary values’ by New York Times architecture critic Nicolai Ouroussoff. This balancing act is also evident in the accessibility of the complex. Considering the closed nature of the traditional Hakka house, there was a real risk of creating social housing which further isolated those who lived within it. However, by creating a large entrance point in the side of the complex, an openness to the outside world is acknowledged.

The design of the internal courtyard – which provides relatively private space for the building’s residents – is continued outside of the building. Seating is dotted throughout the surrounding area, offering space for those who do not live within the complex and further encouraging a mixed community.

The buildings which inspired Tulou were anything but balanced. They existed with one main aim – to protect. Yet with some small design changes, Urbanus have been able to create a modern building which supports its residents, yet displays an openness and acceptance of life outside the building. Quite a change from the design that inspired it.

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