Gender in architecture : a comparative analysis of the architecture of the Minangkabau of West Sumatra and the Chinese of Zhejiang

Abstract

"We should not only properly understand society (theory), but use such understanding as a basis for a programme of action (practice) to change society. If we succeed in changing the position of women, this requires a reassessment of the situation (theory) and so on" Women and Geography Study Group of the British Geographers, Geography and Gender. The dialectical view of life, the universe, and everything', is eminent in the establishment of a sexual dichotomy- woman/man, apparently carried throughout in all cultures, no apparent asexuality exists anywhere. However, the 'status' of the genders tends to differ from culture to culture. Status differences between men and women have been consistently reinforced by architectural spatial arrangements - and this is enforced across cultures. This is based on biological, economical, psychological, or social interpretations. In comprehending a 'female architecture', as such, - on the basis of gender inequalities, one must consider the spatial contexts within which they occur. Gender is not simply an analytical category, it is a relationship of power, so by viewing status - like a complimentary female-orientated society and a male-orientated society, this report should provide a starting ground for further analysis in genderred architecture.