Wood structures, brick and stone structures, and brick and stone load bearing structures are three common architectural types used in the construction of ancient houses in Jinjiang.

Jinghaihou Mansion

Wood structures in southern Fujian province, typically uses the piercing beam design. In Jinjiang, the wood structure is called ‘Dongjia’. This kind of wood structure usually appears in the construction of halls, as well as corner rooms in the back yard and the front yard. A piercing beam design penetrates the pillars that support the whole architectural complex and while some components decorate the wood structure they ensure the solidarity of the connections.

In houses built in recent years, the observer can see arches in ‘Tashou’ structure.

Xujing Tower

In some ancient houses, wood structure only makes its appearance in the hall or ‘Bukou’ while other parts of the houses utilize the stone walls to support the weight. In addition to the wood structure, the gable of the ancient house becomes part of the brick and stone load bearing structure to support the whole house... in order to save wood. In some places where stones are abundant, people also adopt the brick and stone load bearing walls instead of wood structures.