Social Dimensions of Architectural Space

Residential Renewal Based on SAR Theory

Authors

  • Shiyin Li

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62051/ijnres.v7n1.01

Keywords:

SAR Theory, Open Building, SI System, Housing Renewal.

Abstract

Since the emergence of open building theory in the Netherlands in the 1960s, it has gained worldwide attention. Various countries have adapted and developed the theory in line with their unique social contexts, leading to extensive applications and innovations in areas such as urban and rural housing, post-disaster reconstruction, and historic urban renewal. This paper first traces the evolution of open building theory, summarizing its technical breakthroughs in practice. It then examines the core SI (Skeleton-Infill) system—the underlying design logic of the theory—and illustrates its design methodology and sustainable applications through relevant case studies. By emphasizing a design process in which both architects and users collaboratively define the boundaries between permanence and change, this study aims to provide a socially grounded perspective for China's transition into an era of residential stock renewal.

References

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[3] Qin, S. (2014). Sustainable Residential Design and Practice Based on the SI System. (Master’s thesis, China Architecture Design & Research Group).

[4] Li, M., Xia, H., & Li, J. (2019). Research on Modularity Coordination in SI Housing Design. Huazhong Architecture, 37(05), 47–52.

[5] Zhang, S. (1980). Design Methodologies for SAR Housing and Residential Environments. World Architecture, (02), 10–16.

[6] Huang, J., & Zhou, J. (2016). Expressing Flexibility in Architecture through Open Building Theory. Urban Housing, 23(06), 32–36.

[7] Cui, G., Ji, X., & Chen, X. (2015). Research on Systematic Design Strategies of Japan’s Long-term High-quality Collective Housing. New Architecture, (5), 94–98.

[8] Li, Y. (2018). An Analysis of the Open-Type Collective Housing NEXT21. Wall Material Innovation and Building Energy Efficiency, (4), 49–51.

[9] Zhao, S. (2019). Research on the Renewal of Existing Multi-story Residential Buildings in Northeastern Cities Based on the SI Separation System (Master’s thesis, Harbin Institute of Technology).

[10] Shao, Y., Li, J., & Wang, M. (2015). Reflections on Shantytown Renovation Under the Enlightenment of Open Building Theory. New Architecture, (6), 108–111.

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Published

03-09-2025

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Li, S. (2025). Social Dimensions of Architectural Space: Residential Renewal Based on SAR Theory. International Journal of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, 7(1), 1-4. https://doi.org/10.62051/ijnres.v7n1.01