Internship at Yangxin Hall

Yangxin Hall, also known as the Hall of Mental Cultivation, stands as one of the most significant structures within China’s Forbidden City. Its history spans nearly five centuries, evolving from a minor building to a crucial center of imperial power. Originally constructed in in 1537 during Ming Dynasty, Yangxin Hall served as part of the royal palace complex for over 400 years. Its original purpose was for Buddhist alchemical practices; however the hall’s role and importance shifted with the rise of the Qing Dynasty (1616-1912).

Following the Manchu conquest, Yangxin Hall’s function was to house administrative offices and even a glass factory, indicating its utilitarian value in the early Qing period. It was not until the mid-Qing era (1723) that Yangxin Hall was officially designated as the imperial residence, a role it would maintain for the remainder of the dynasty.

The preservation of Yangxin Hall encompasses both the extensive repair/maintenance of its architectural structure and the detailed restoration of the artifacts housed within. In my initial days on the project, I worked onsite with labor teams to supervise the replacement of roof tiles. This hands-on experience provided me with a deeper understanding of the sophisticated craftsmanship behind traditional Chinese roofing systems and the preservation principles that guide this monumental effort.

It also opened my eyes to areas where the restoration process could evolve. While the Forbidden City remains steadfast in its use of traditional methods, integrating modern technologies and tools presents an opportunity to enhance both the efficiency and accuracy of the work. Innovations in condition assessment and repair methodologies could complement the time-honored techniques, creating a harmonious blend of heritage and progress in the field of preservation.

My academic journey has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to excel in architectural preservation and design processes. During my internship, I took on the responsibility of organizing and documenting all design changes made during the preservation process, ensuring they aligned with on-site investigations and construction activities.

In addition to this, I contributed to the team's efforts by performing cost evaluations for future project phases, analyzing and summarizing previous cost details to provide valuable insights for budgeting and resource allocation. This experience not only enhanced my technical and analytical abilities but also reinforced the importance of meticulous planning and documentation in preservation work.