http://www.easyaccommodationbeijing.com/article.asp?ArticleID=15
Foreign visitors often think SiHeYuan is bungalow, actually it is not bungalow. It is traditional graceful China’s building. A standard SiHeYuan usually consists of houses on its four sides, and the house which stands at the north end and faces at the south is called the main house or north house. The ones on both sides are called side houses, and the one stands at the south end and faces north is called opposite house or south house.
The SiHeYuan‘s gate is usually at the southeastern corner according to the traditional concepts of the five elements that were believed to compose the universe, and the eight diagrams of divination. Normally there is a screen-wall inside the gate so that outsiders cannot see directly into the courtyard and it is also believed to protect the house from evil spirits. Outside the gate of some large SiHeYuan, there is a pair of stone lions on each side. Such a residence offers space, comfort and quiet privacy. It is also good for security as well as protection against dust and storms.
The gates are usually painted vermilion and have large copper door rings. Usually a whole family lives in one compound. The elder generation lives in the main house, the younger generation live in the side houses, and the south house is usually their sitting room or study.
As a main housing style of Beijing, SiHeYuan dwellings, where live generations of Beijing natives, are well-known to people both at home and abroad. SiHeYuan emerged during the Yuan Dynasty when Beijing was for the first time established as the country’s capital. Their architectural structure, which has many distinct characteristics, is typical and representative of the Chinese traditional housing construction. Though just a kind of common dwelling, the SiHeYuan convey a profound cultural meaning since they are regarded as the carrier of Chinese traditional culture. On arriving in Beijing, a place that has a long history and rich cultures, you can feel its uniqueness simply by living in a courtyard, tasting Peking roast duck, climbing the Great Wall, listening to Beijing Opera and so on. If you are eager to know more of the city, living in a courtyard must be the best choice. Comfortable atmosphere in Beijing SiHeYuan makes you feel just at home. With the distinguishing features of the traditional culture and the outstanding charm of the Orient, the SiHeYuan are the places where you can learn the classic culture of China and experience the folk custom of Beijing.
