Sustainable architectural design embedded in Treatise on Superfluous Things

Treatise on Superfluous Things by Wen Zhenheng has been viewed as the masterpiece concerning the 12 necessary aspects of literati life in late Ming dynasty, including buildings, plants, water and stone, birds and fish, painting and calligraphy, furnishings, appliances, clothes, boats and vehicles, locations, fruits, fragrance and tea. Based on Treatise on Superfluous Things, this research aims to explore the conception of utility-oriented design, the appreciation of exquisiteness and plainness, and the pursuit of literati dignity. According to the methodology of design and art, the paper profoundly analyzes the suitableness and appropriateness of architectural materials, focusing on the comprehensive integration and sustainable utilization. By inheriting the traditional theory of gardening, some innovative skills are proposed to stimulate the sustainable development of contemporary literati gardens.