architectural journals

Three periodicals published in Beijing form the core of Chinese architectural journals. Sponsored by the Architectural Society of China and the state, Architectural Journal (Jianzhu xuebao) is the only one established before the Reform and available in libraries all over the world. The Journal provides the only comprehensive coverage of all major Chinese architectural projects. It publishes designs as well as theory and governmental policy studies.

The 1979 Reform ushered in a proliferation of architectural journals. The most important newcomer is Architect (Jianzhushi), issued as a book series.

Focusing on architectural criticism and theory, it single-handedly introduced major Western theoretical works to Chinese architects and provides the only venue for Chinese scholars to publish substantial research papers. It also pioneered the promotion of experimental designs by young Chinese architects.

Since the 1990s, Chinese architects have increasingly relied on fashionable Western architectural examples to produce quick schemes in a booming economy. This explains why World Architecture (Shijie jianzhu), established in 1979 and specializing in architectural designs outside of China, has become the most widely read publication, even surpassing Architectural Journal. There are several national journals published in other major cities. Often subsidized by large local design firms, their formats look better but their editorial policies tend to be swayed by the sponsors and by the popular interest. These journals frequently devote equal if not more space to the foreign architectural scene than to the domestic one. Articles are usually shorter and centre around images.

MIAO PU