Mutation House: Research through practice and vice versa

The rural Chinese dwelling is undergoing a radical mutation, breaking from its traditional vernacular typology instigated by changes in its structural gene, vis-à-vis the arrival of reinforced concrete. This paper investigates how the Dong minority timber house can mitigate this transformation by developing a hybrid concrete and timber design. The research is based on design iterations defined as prototypes, abstract and built, that generate different modes of habitation while concurrently prompting discussions around contemporary forms of practice. In conclusion, we propose the prototype as a vehicle for a new way of learning that blurs the distinction between teaching, research and practice.