Hakka Dwelling Modeling Aesthetics and Sustainable Maintenance Strategies

Min  Liao; Krisana  Chueachainat; Manoon  Tho-ard

doi:10.60027/iarj.2026.e291914

Authors

Min Liao Shinawatra University, Bangkok, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0005-3436-4130
Krisana Chueachainat Shinawatra University, Bangkok, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3712-4118
Manoon Tho-ard Shinawatra University, Bangkok, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0009-0634-0253

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.60027/iarj.2026.e291914

Keywords:

Hakka Dwellings, Vernacular Architecture, Cultural Heritage Preservation, Modeling Aesthetics, Sustainable Promotion Strategies

Abstract

Background and Aims: Hakka dwellings constitute a distinctive vernacular system that blends regional aesthetics, ecological wisdom, and encoded cultural symbolism. Yet rapid urbanization and the attrition of traditional craftsmanship have intensified risks of neglect and degradation. This study examines the modeling aesthetics, the principal maintenance bottlenecks, and the promotion pathways of Hakka dwellings to support their sustainable inheritance and revitalization.

Methodology: Adopting an interdisciplinary design, the research triangulates literature review, coded content analysis, and conceptual modeling, supplemented by qualitative coding and cross-case comparison. The analysis is organized with lenses from architectural theory, ecological ethics, and cultural communication to interrogate aesthetic features, conservation strategies, and dissemination mechanisms.

Results: Three conclusions are reached: (1) the modeling language of Hakka residences features formal symmetry, enclosure, and ecological adaptability, accompanied by symbolic motifs grounded in Confucian and Daoist thought; (2) upkeep is constrained by material decay, skill loss, and economic pressure, while feasible responses include digital documentation and monitoring, adaptive reuse, and community-based models; (3) cultural promotion proves most effective when tourism networks, digital/immersive media, public art, and international outreach are integrated to broaden engagement and strengthen heritage vitality.

Conclusion: A practical “protection–activation–innovation” framework is proposed to connect aesthetic preservation with technological tools and cultural re-contextualization. The framework offers actionable guidance for sustainable conservation and points to future work in digital heritage modeling, community participation, and creative-industry collaboration to secure the long-term viability of Hakka cultural identity.

References

Du, Y. (2011). Aesthetic value and cultural connotation of Hakka dwellings. Journal of Qingdao University of Technology, 32(2), 56–73.

Duan, J. (2011). Conservation and research strategies for traditional dwellings. Friend of Science Amateurs, 14, 155–156.

He, H. Z. (2017). Aesthetic value of Hakka dwellings in northern Guangdong. Art Appreciation, 3, 130, 146.

He, S. P. (2011). Aesthetic exploration of Hakka architectural culture [Master’s thesis, South China University of Technology].

Jiang, J. Q. (2008). Characteristics and conservation of Hakka dwellings in Longgang, Shenzhen. Building Materials & Decoration (Mid-monthly), 7, 58–59.

Liu, A. Q. (2023). Value and application of auspicious patterns in southern Fujian traditional dwellings. Tiangong, 9, 20–22.

Wu, Q. Z. (1998). Imagery of Hakka dwellings. Architectural Journal, 4, 57–75.

Yang, X., & Tang, Z. H. (2020). Characteristics of Hakka dwellings based on cultural centripetality. Development of Small Cities & Towns, 38(7), 55–62.

Ye, J. W. (2015). Research trends in Hakka culture based on academic journals from past decade. Heilongjiang History and Chronicles, 1, 142.

Zhan, J. (2016). Public art design based on Hakka culture. Art Education Research, 6, 68–69.

Zhang, S. Y. (2021). Characteristics of Hakka cultural dwellings. Oriental Collection, 21, 98–99.