The emergence of a profession: development of the profession of architecture in China

Abstract

Within a general context of economic reform that began in the late 1970s, China set out to establish architectural practice in a professional context in 1980 and established a professional framework in 1995. Practice, however has moved at a different pace in evolving professional attitudes and behaviors. This paper traces the profession of architecture through to the situation in the early 21st century and examines different modes of practice observable in some major cities in China. Six case studies are presented to illustrate different current modes ofpractice. The paper discusses professional dynamics illustrated by these case studies using the Superpositioning Matrix as a model; demands on architectural education are then considered in light of these discussions. The conclusion identifies issues to be addressed in coming years. Copyright © 2008, Locke Science Publishing Company, Inc. Chicago, IL, USA. All Rights Reserved.