Developing an ANP-driven value framework for sustainable preservation and revitalization as exemplified by Hakka enclosed houses in China

Architectural heritage embodies the historical, architectural, and cultural evolution of societies, serving as a vital repository of historical, artistic, scientific, and social values. Amid rapid urbanization, heritage preservation faces growing challenges from competing interests and divergent value systems, necessitating more refined evaluation methodologies. This study proposes a weighted indicator allocation approach based on the Analytic Network Process (ANP) and expert ranking, applied to 102 Hakka enclosed houses in Shenzhen’s Pingshan District. By analyzing their origins, historical development, and spatial characteristics, a value-oriented assessment framework is established—integrating historical, current-use, and sustainability values. Developing a Multi-Level evaluation framework to guide the conservation of Hakka enclosed houses through field Surveys and case studies. The findings enhance the scientific rigor and objectivity of renewal efforts, offering innovative insights for balancing preservation and adaptive reuse in regional architectural heritage conservation and policymaking.