Everyday Spatial Practices in Tibetan Houses: A Study of the Spatial Production of Gyalrong Tibetan Vernacular Houses in Western Sichuan

Abstract

The Gyalrong Tibetan is considered to be a distinctive ethnic, located between the Sichuan Basin and the Tibet (Dbus Gtsang) region in China. The vernacular houses of the Gyalrong Tibetans are known for their stone masonry architectural features. Their adaptation has been a significant factor in maintaining a vibrant cultural heritage while preserving traditional architectural forms. This study analyses the changes in the vernacular houses of a typical Gyalrong Tibetan village over the past 40 years, from the perspective of everyday life practices, to investigate the vitality and sustainable renewal of its traditional forms. The findings indicate that the contemporary evolution of the Gyalrong vernacular houses involves preserving traditional social and cultural practices while implementing innovative spatial strategies. These strategies, which include incorporating new materials, adapting functional spaces, and reorganizing production methods, contribute to a rich and dynamic balance between tradition and modernity. The resilience of Gyalrong vernacular houses is rooted in the inhabitants' steadfastness and ability to adapt to evolving daily realities. This factor will be pivotal in reconciling the tension between preserving historical and cultural legacies and the imperatives of modernity within China's rural revitalization framework.