Spatial Reproduction Strategy: A New Development Strategy for Rural Heritage Communities Based on Cultural Ecology and Anthropology

Abstract

Despite significant efforts to utilise cultural heritage to boost incomes in rural heritage communities, the outcomes for both architectural and intangible heritage have been unsatisfactory. Current evaluation criteria often separate the assessment of existing conditions from the formulation of development strategies, revealing a lack of integrated research that links both aspects in a coherent framework. As a result, the protection and development of rural heritage communities often lack systematic guidance and operational coordination.
This study aims to propose a spatial reproduction assessment framework to balance heritage protection with community development, aiming to improve living standards without compromising cultural heritage. It also aims to design a planning and management support tool for rural heritage communities in China.
The study began with a systematic literature review to identify the theoretical framework and key factors. A qualitative approach was employed to conduct case studies of six rural heritage communities in Shaanxi Province, China. Data collection included archival research, observations, and interviews. The analysis and synthesis phase were guided by the theoretical framework and under the perspective of cultural ecology and cultural anthropology.
An Environmental-Spatial Relationship Model was built from the archival and observation findings. Main contradictions between protection and development were identified through the interview findings. These findings were then combined with the literature review to create a spatial reproduction assessment framework and tool for rural heritage communities. A panel of experts and local committee members evaluated the tool's accuracy, utility, and usability. This study contributes to theory and practice by integrating the assessment and strategy, as well as tailoring the scattered national policies into the assessment tool as a whole. It also helps increase public participation within the community, meeting as many residents' livelihood and cultural needs as possible.

Date of Award	22 Apr 2026
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Supervisor	Kemi Adeyeye (Supervisor), Ricardo Codinhoto (Supervisor), Dima Albadra (Supervisor) & Tao Wang (Supervisor)