Co-evolution: A Model for Renovation of Traditional Villages in the Urban Fringe of Guangzhou, China

With the expansion of urban areas, many traditional villages with high heritage values in the urban fringes in China are being destroyed. This study proposes a resilient method for renovating traditional villages in the urban fringe in Guangzhou, China. The authors begin with an analysis of two existing renovation models from the constitutional, economic, and social perspectives. Based on our reorganization of the advantages and disadvantages of the two models, the authors suggest the application of the co-evolution model, which entails the establishment of an intermediate space supporter between the urban area and the village. Consequently, urbanization capital can be accumulated and effectively distributed into relevant fields. The goals of this process include protecting cultural heritage, maintaining social networks, eliminating hidden social dangers, and creating new employment opportunities. The co-evolution model respects the development needs of both urban and rural areas, and seeks a win-win situation, wherein each party could adapt and renew themselves gradually and positively. Thus, this model has significance in the renovation of traditional villages in the urban fringe.