Situated in the traditional villages of Songyang County, China, the study analyses the problems confronted in the process of protection and development, whilst exploring spatial renewal strategies. Villages are carriers and transmitters of culture; the displacement of traditional villages means that the social memory of villagers is also undergoing change. This research is concerned with how to protect and develop traditional villages confronting rapid urbanisation, one of the most important issues impacting social development in China today.

A traditional village is not merely a community of villagers living and producing, but it is also a place of traditional buildings, structures and spaces. These material elements reflect local customs, religious rituals, architectural arts and traditional culture, and also carry the emotions and memories of generations. With the acceleration of China’s urbanisation, however, rural populations continue to migrate to cities; traditional buildings face neglect and demolition as they are replaced by new architectural forms.