Study on the Renewal Mode of Modern Residential Architectural Heritage under the Perspective of “Conjunctive Ecological Theory”-Taking Ancient City of Suzhou as an Example

¹ Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, China
² China-Portugal Belt and Road Joint Laboratory on Cultural Heritage Conservation Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
³ International Cooperative Joint Laboratory of Jiangsu Universities Supported by 145 Projects, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
⁴ Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Évora, Largo dos Colegiais

^* Corresponding author: wuyao@suda.edu.cn

Abstract

This study focuses on modern residential buildings located in the central area of Suzhou. Based on a systematic review of their historical evolution and an in-depth assessment of their current preservation and utilization status, the research identifies the common issues and key characteristics of these urban dwellings. It further categorizes both tangible and intangible cultural heritage resources associated with the residential environment. Twelve representative residential buildings, each preservation challenges, are selected for detailed analysis. Guided by principles of integrated urban renewal, the study proposes targeted regeneration strategies emphasizing the synergy between historical legacy and contemporary culture, the coexistence of productive and residential functions, the spatial integration of old and new structures, and the social inclusion of local and migrant populations. These strategies incorporate technical approaches such as structural reinforcement, adaptive reuse, spatial reconfiguration, and community-oriented design, aiming to promote the sustainable development and culturally sensitive revitalization of Suzhou’s modern residential heritage.