The Construction Techniques of Vaulted-Stone Buildings in the Taihang Mountains Region of Hebei, China

The vaulted-stone dwellings of the Taihang Mountains in Hebei Province represent a distinctive form of vernacular architecture shaped by local environmental conditions and socio-economic realities. The construction techniques employed in these buildings transform static spatial forms into dynamic processes, reflecting both the adaptability to natural conditions and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. This study systematically investigates the construction practices of these dwellings, focusing on three key phases: site preparation, material sourcing, and construction execution. The site preparation phase explores the influence of Feng Shui principles, orientation, and topographical factors, emphasizing the cultural logic behind spatial decision-making. The material sourcing phase analyzes stone quarrying, wood selection, and the strategic use of bricks and tiles, highlighting methods of resource optimization under material constraints. The construction phase details essential procedures, including foundation laying, wall and vault construction, roof assembly, and the installation of doors and windows, underscoring the craftsmanship’s flexibility and context-responsiveness. This research demonstrates how vaulted-stone construction techniques are deeply embedded in the region’s socio-cultural fabric, sustained by manual labor and intergenerational knowledge transmission. These practices exemplify the integration of traditional architecture with local identity, offering valuable insights for the preservation of vernacular heritage, cultural continuity, and rural development.