Award of Merit

Ping Yao Courtyard Houses of Shanxi province. [Photo/UNESCO]

Project name: Ping Yao Courtyard Houses

Location: Shanxi province, China

The pilot restoration of 53 courtyard houses in the Ancient City of Ping Yao World Heritage property serves as a noteworthy model for the conservation of privately-owned vernacular buildings which are increasingly vulnerable across the region. Through a wide-ranging partnership involving local authorities, national experts and international heritage organizations, the project provided technical advice and funding subsidies to enable homeowners to restore their dilapidated residences. The work was carried out by experienced craftspeople using traditional construction techniques and materials, thus retaining material authenticity while sustaining local building traditions. Technical manuals were developed to ensure these high standards are applied in future restoration, adaptation and maintenance efforts. Through a combination of demonstration projects, technical capacity building and new financing models, the initiative makes a significant contribution to the long-term viability of Ping Yao courtyard houses.