Analysis of Physical Changes in Buildings and Public Space in Danwei Compounds: A Case Study on AMS Compound in Hefei City (China)

The Danwei system is a unique community level urban social-spatial unit developed in the socialism exploration process of the People’s Republic of China. In this paper, the Anhui Academy of Medical Science (AMS) Danwei compound was selected as the study target to analyze the physical changes in Danwei system from the aspect of building and public space. Raw data was collected by method of the digitization and analysis of maps made in 1961, 1975, 1987, 1999 and 2017. Public space in each period was also analyzed by the space syntax tool. These were supplemented with purposive interviews with residents. The study analyzed the building floor area, function, materials, storey and the demolition/retention of buildings between 1961 and 2018. The study findings hang on two significant points: a continuous optimization of buildings on one hand and a decline and degradation of public space on the other hand. Based on the findings we suggest the need for inventive and participatory master planning to guide new interventions, redesign and improvement of public space and the promotion of compactness.