Analyzing the Wooden Frame Design Methods of the Hue Imperial Palaces, Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), Vietnam

The Complex of Hue Monuments (abbreviated as the Monuments) is well-known for its wealth of scientific materials for research. This paper begins by introducing the features of the Wooden Frame of the Twin-Ridge Beam Building (abbreviated as the Twin-Buildings), which represent the highest level of the Hue Imperial Palaces (abbreviated as the Imperial Palaces). The Twin-Buildings are an important component of the Complex of Hue Monuments, recognized as UNESCO's first World Cultural Heritage site in Vietnam in December 1993. Next, this paper examines the design methods of the Wooden Frame of the Twin-Buildings, which were used exclusively for special functions such as residences in the Palaces, worshiping halls in the Shrines of the ancestors, and the Temples of succeeding Emperors' mausoleums. Designing and constructing the Twin-Buildings represents one of the most challenging techniques among the Monuments. Primarily based on the historic documents of the Nguyen dynasty, surveys of the remaining Twin-Buildings, dimensional analysis, investigations into traditional design methods, interviews with traditional master carpenters, and study results on the floor plan design methods, this research seeks to redefine the design methods of the Wooden Frame of the Twin-Buildings. Through this study, the architectural proportions, design methods, and design processes of the Wooden Frame have been concretely identified. This research provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles behind the wooden frame design of the Twin-Buildings in the Imperial Palaces. Furthermore, the findings published in this paper serve as a valuable reference for researchers, graduate students, and architecture students. They contribute to academic education and scientific research, while also providing an important database and knowledge base for the restoration and reconstruction of the Monuments.