Hutong renovation underway in Beijing

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-07-2008 09:02

The largest-ever renovation project on the city's traditional alleys, or hutongs is under way in capital. These architectural symbols of a bygone era have always faced modifications. But this time, preservation is the key concern.

The largest-ever renovation project on the city's traditional hutongs is under way in capital. (Photo: focus.cn)

This is one of the many Hutongs around the Forbidden City. They're almost the same age. But while the imperial palace has long been a museum, hutongs still house people.

Liu Shicang's family has lived here for decades. But it was only three months ago they finally got their own in-door bathroom.

Chen Yuying, LiuShicang's wife said "The renovation is great. Our house was completely rebuilt and the government paid the bill. We know it must have cost a lot. The materials used were of good quality. The old wood was rotting, bricks crumbling, but now everything is new."

"Everything is new." This used to worry conservationists. In the late 1990s, in response to a chorus of concern from the general public, China slowed the pace of demolition and set aside 40 protected zones in the city center.

And how to preserve came under hot debate. A mere facelift or a complete renovation? Neither was satisfactory.

This project is different. It keeps the old look: grey bricks, roof tiles, and graceful courtyard gardens.

As for the new, households in one yard no longer have to share one electricity meter, each has its own. And plumbing and floor elevation improve hygiene.

As the city modernizes, the old look may seem out of place next to modern structures. But they both stand for their own time. And for the people who live in these alleys/yards, renovation means the past has a future. And that's the idea behind the project.

Liu Shicang, Hutong resident said "We like the historical look. The old building should be kept and it should also be upgraded. So that the people live in it can enjoy a better life. And at the same time, we don't need to worry about losing tradition."

Ancient buildings are living memory. And when the time comes when today is history, bits and pieces of the Hutong can still reflect a genuine Beijing.

Editor:Xiong Qu