Study of the Hierarchical Relationships and Renovation of Support Systems in Existing Residential Areas in Shenzhen, China

Abstract The existing residential area in Shenzhen, China mainly refers to a specific multi-story brick and concrete residential area built in the 1980s-1990s. After 30-40 years of use, the structures in these settlements have experienced different degrees of deterioration. As a megacity in southern China, Shenzhen has engaged in a diversified transformation to maintain and renew existing residential area, including comprehensive environmental improvements, facade and roof transformations, elevator installations, and pipeline replacements. However, there has been a lack of systematic reviews of different renovation practices and their effects on existing residential areas. Based on concept of “ level ” from open buildings, this study reviews the hierarchical relationships in existing residential areas in Shenzhen, dividing the residential building support systems into four parts: the enclosed structures, components attached to facades, the public space in a building, and public pipelines. The study reviewed nine typical case settlements using field investigations and analysis, and summarized the mode and degree of the renovation or transformation, the rights and responsibilities of the subjects involved, and the purpose of the current support system elements. This facilitates a systematic review of the problems emerging during a renovation. This study provides a new perspective and theoretical basis for reviewing the renovation of existing residential areas in China.