From the village to the city : a comparative study of the materials and techniques of the roof system of village houses in Hong Kong's rural areas and of Tong Lau in the urban areas

Abstract

This dissertation is about the proper repair and restoration of a traditional Chinese roof system in Hong Kong. In the research, the author focuses on the flush gable roof type found in traditional houses in rural and urban Hong Kong. Using local examples – Lai Mansion in Lai Uk Tsuen (representing the rural house typology) and the Yellow House in Wan Chai (representing the urban Tong Lau typology) – the author analyzes the differences of the rural and urban roofs in term of form, materials and techniques, as well as their heritage significant. The outcome of this research is to produce a detailed method statement for the repair and restoration of these roofs. It is hoped that this research will serve as a reference for developing conservation strategy and producing technical specifications for the repair and restoration of roofs of traditional heritage buildings in Hong Kong.