Adaptive Reuse of the Yan’An Cave Dwellings, China
INTRODUCTION
The Yan'an cave dwellings are one of the oldest types of housing in northeast China. They utilize the natural landscape to create a comfortable environment for local residents. However, these ancient dwelling methods are facing challenges due to urbanization and economic development, leading to a decline in their appeal among the younger generation. This thesis explores the potential for adaptive reuse of the cave dwelling typology. By examining a specific site in Yan'an, it addresses the relationship between landscape, architecture, and interior space, as well as how to reorganize courtyards to foster new neighborhood relationships.
CASE STUDY
To gain a better understanding of this ancient dwelling typology, I began my research by visiting one of the oldest cave dwelling villages in Mizhi County, Shanxi Province. The village spans 7.2 square kilometers and has a population of 1,090 residents. It was once owned by the largest landlord, the Ma family, in the mid-19th century. Later, it gained national recognition as the temporary headquarters of Mao Zedong and his followers, which is also why it has remained untouched during the urbanization that occurred in China.
Yangjiagou Cave Dweling village
Taking one of the courtyards in Yangjiagou as a typical example, the caves are arranged in a rectangular layout, making the courtyard the central space within the residential groups. Activities related to farming, cleaning, and socializing occur in this area, fostering a closer relationship between individuals and their neighbors.
Courtyard as Storage
Courtyard activities
Courtyard as farming place
SITE ANALYSIS
Upon departing Wangjiagou and arriving in Yan’an—one of the largest cities in Shaanxi Province—the perception of cave dwellings shifts significantly. To many locals, these structures are no longer cherished heritage, but rather remnants of a decaying past.
Neighborhood Analysis
As shown in the image below, urbanization is advancing at an astonishing pace, leading to the widespread abandonment of traditional cave dwellings. Many of these structures no longer meet the standards of modern living, and residing in them is often associated with poverty and lower social status.
The family I visited—whom I ultimately chose as the focus of my site study—was still occupying one of these cave dwellings.
Site Location
Existed condition of the site and user analysis for future adaptation
Concept Diagrams
Master Plan
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4
Final Outcome
The final adaptive reuse vision proposes a multi-family housing plan tailored to the unique needs of this community. By sensitively integrating the cave dwellings into the natural contours of the mountain, four distinct dwelling types have been thoughtfully designed to accommodate the local demographic, particularly multi-generational families. Each unit features a private garden entrance, south-facing arched windows that maximize sunlight and provide passive warmth during the long winter months, and a modernized interior layout that preserves the thermal efficiency inherent to cave living. The multi-tiered master plan strengthens the fading connections between neighbors, fostering a renewed sense of community and belonging.