Xue’s Residence

Xue’s Residence was built in 1926. It is located on the north side of the narrow West Street, [...]

Xue’s Residence was built in 1926. It is located on the north side of the narrow West Street, with a total floor area of about 350 square meters. It faces the street and is adjacent to the river. It is a typical commercial and residential dwelling in Xitang. Xue’s Residence has several characteristics: shallow, simple, and bright. Contrary to the traditional custom of regarding darkness as superior and darkness being able to store wealth, all windows are equipped with glass, and the glass windows are decorated with floral grids. It also looks very pleasing to the eye. The entire Xue’s Residence is of brick-wood structure and has two rows. The front row faces the street and has a one-line shape with four bays, three on the east and one on the west. The currently open three bays on the east are the main entrance. On both sides are counters supplying tourist souvenirs and antiques. The wall of the front row of Xue’s Residence is about 6 meters deep. The construction method and structure are still traditional. The roof is a gable roof, but it is much taller than that of ordinary residents. Among the residential buildings constructed during this period in the entire Xitang Town, it is still very prominent. The back row is the main hall. There is a small patio between the front and back rows. The patio is very small. Narrow side rooms are left on both sides, like corridors. The side rooms all have long glass windows through which the patio can be seen. Due to the installation of glass, the lighting is much brighter than that of traditional houses. The main hall is also three bays. The ground is paved with square bricks. There are pillars in the middle. The latter half is blocked by a long door. Crossing the threshold leaves half a room leading to the river. On the right is the stairwell and kitchen with a compact structure. The main hall is connected to the left and right side rooms, like two tiger paws. Opening hours: Open all year round from 8:00 to 17:30. The specific business status is subject to the opening situation on that day.