Morphological typology pedigree of centripetal spatial schema in traditional Chinese settlements

Abstract

Centripetality, as a spatial prototype characterized by “collective memory”, manifests within the context of traditional Chinese culture as the inherent concept of “human-centeredness” which have existed since ancient times. This paper employs “schema theory” as a cognitive method for morphological analysis. Focusing on traditional Chinese settlements with typical centripetal spatial characteristics, it identifies 11 factors contributing to centripetality in spatial morphology. It constructs a morphological typology pedigree of centripetal spatial schema in traditional settlements. Through quantitative methods, it measures the geometric features of samples and reveals the correlation between morphological factors, typology pedigree, and geometric characteristics. The research aims to systematically understand the external manifestations and underlying causes of centripetal spatial schema in traditional Chinese settlements. This understanding, viewed through the strategic lens of “Chinese-style modernization”, seeks to provide scientific references for the revitalization of historical neighborhoods, the regeneration of traditional villages, and the development of contemporary living environments with Chinese characteristics in China.