Research on the Evolution of Spatial Forms of Miao and Dong Ethnic Minority Dwellings in Southeastern Guizhou

Abstract

This study explores the specific manifestations and development trends of spatial form changes in Miao and Dong ethnic minority dwellings in the context of modern times, documenting the structural characteristics of traditional architecture in  Southeastern Guizhou. Through field visits to typical Miao and Dong villages in the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture of Guizhou Province, along with on-site mapping of representative dwellings, as well as literature review, comparative analysis, and synthesis, the study finds that factors such as social development, changes in the natural environment, ethnic integration, technological advancements, and the modernization of lifestyles have triggered the dynamic evolution of the spatial forms of traditional Miao and Dong dwellings. This evolution reflects the adaptation of the Miao and Dong people to their ever-changing living environment and results from the interaction between tradition, multicultural influences, and modern technology. It also signifies the inevitable adaptation of traditional dwellings to the development of modern lifestyles.