Learning from Vernacular Water-management Practices In Hangzhou

Abstract

This project explores the potential of integrating the wisdom and principles of ancient water management methods in the contemporary urban context of Hangzhou. Due to its specific location in the Yangtze river plain, Hangzhou is dealing with water issues for centuries. To support daily life and protect themselves from flooding threats, the people living there have been maintaining a close and intelligent relationship with water. The interaction between nature and human activities has formulated unique water management infrastructure at different scales. However, the growth of population led to rapid urbanization and inappropriate land uses in the previous dense waterway network. With the trend of increased occurrence of flooding, modern engineering approach of water management is being challenged. Vernacular water-management examples in Hangzhou will be explored according to two different natural watersheds. Based on the understanding of these examples, this project intends to develop a set tool-kits, methods, and possible interventions by testing principles and lessons learned in different scales and dealing with different conditions between the natural environment and human activities.