Review article

The article analyzes the reasons for the destruction and change of the traditional Chinese dwelling, Siheyuan, in the centre of Beijing. The author considers the current problems of the buildings` functioning in the area of the western part of Dongcheng district, which is outside the historical and conservation areas. The district is presently subjected to an unauthorized transformation of functional-planning, architectural, and structural solutions. There has been carried out a partial on-site survey of historical dwellings in the area investigated. There are traced some contradictions between the way of use and the historical and architectural potential of the area, as well as between the traditional and contemporary levels of demands.