ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes the findings on the time and cultural activities in the renewed/new courtyard housing in Beijing and Suzhou. It explores the cultural beliefs and behavioral patterns of residents and the space they use for their activities. The chapter exmaines the housing facilitates a harmonious relationship for residents in terms of their healthy personal development, which is a fundamental of Chinese philosophy and a cornerstone of culturally sustainable architecture in China. The cultural beliefs and behavioral patterns studied include resident's philosophy and religion, their cultural activities and festivities at home, in the courtyard, balcony, roof terrace, community center, community or city parks or gardens. Resident's celebrations of birthdays, wedding ceremonies, and anniversaries are also observed. Communism has made a major impact on contemporary Chinese people's belief system. A resident at Suzhou Tongfangyuan organized cultural activities for neighbors to get together such as a barbecue, and bicycle lessons for children inside and near the housing estate.
