Based on historical documents and field investigations, this article analyzes the origin and development of the concept and form of the Chinese courtyard “TianJing” in vernacular residences to address common misunderstandings in previous studies. Focused on the scale standard in YingZaoFaYuan traditional building technology in the JiangNan region, TianJing is closely related to the main hall in dwellings reflecting the construction customs in different regions. Through the statistical analysis of the measured dimension data, this study shows the scale characteristics, demonstrating the cultural correlations of vernacular residences in different regions based on similarities. It explores the causes, rules and effects of and changes in traditional construction wisdom reflected by the historical geographic comparative background.

Lime was an enduring and versatile material in ancient China, widely applied in medicine, dyeing, shipbuilding, and notably in architecture as a binding agent for masonry, earthen structures, and decorative finishes. Its recognition as Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) stems from both its profound historical significance and its capacity to meet UNESCO’s five criteria for ICH: sustaining cultural identity, embodying systematic knowledge, ensuring community continuity, stimulating creativity, and addressing contemporary challenges. This study employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating historical, archeological, and anthropological research with experimental and scientific analysis, to establish a comprehensive knowledge framework. This framework is structured around six technical stages: material selection, calcination, slaking, formulation, construction, and curing. By reconstructing the embodied knowledge and socio-technical practices of artisans, we reconceptualize lime craftsmanship as a living, active, and productive form of ICH. This research offers valuable theoretical and practical insights for architectural heritage conservation and the promotion of sustainable cultural development.

As a dominant typology of urban development and a critical component of public infrastructure, super high-rise buildings have transitioned from a speed-driven expansion model to one that emphasizes a balanced approach between development pace and quality. Within the context of urban stock renewal, numerous super high-rise buildings now face pressing needs for retrofitting to enhance their sustainability and urban integration. This study establishes “urbanity”—defined as the capacity of the built environment to foster vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable urban life—as a core evaluation criterion for assessing the retrofitting and renewal of super high-rise buildings. Based on a comprehensive literature review and field investigations, 21 representative indicators were identified, and the key factors influencing the upgrading of such buildings were determined. Subsequently, 20 super high-rise buildings in Shanghai were selected as case studies, and their urbanity performance was assessed using a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model (FCEM). The findings reveal common challenges, including architectural homogenization, functional singularity, limited vitality in near-ground spaces, weak integration with surrounding infrastructure, and inefficient utilization of urban landscape resources. Furthermore, the study analyzes urbanity-oriented enhancement strategies implemented in the selected cases and proposes targeted improvement measures across five key dimensions: building morphology, functional configuration, near-ground space, infrastructure, and urban landscape. The research contributes to the body of knowledge on sustainable urban regeneration by providing a practical evaluation framework and actionable strategies for retrofitting super high-rise buildings. The findings aim to support more livable, inclusive, and resilient urban environments, with implications for both Chinese and global cities facing similar challenges in high-density urban contexts.