

Stable causal chains are formed by the Thirdness of Habit, which represents people’s initiative in addressing natural challenges. (2) The characteristics of the architectural form are determined by the causal chain of “four-layer integrated into one”. Nevertheless, the process by which local residents think, judge and respond to natural challenges remains unchanged (Thirdness of Habit), forming the core of dwelling. (1) The characteristics of the residential architectural form change with local livelihood form, institution and ideology. The logic in traditional residential architecture is analysed through the “four-layer integrated into one” framework (including the natural environment, livelihood form, institution and ideology), yielding the following results. Peirce’s interpretation of the three natures of habit and Heidegger’s dwelling help determine the essence of building habits. The traditional residential architectural characteristics in three periods were obtained and compared. To resolve these contradictions, fieldwork was conducted in Yangwan, a famous village in South China.

Therefore, contradictions arise between unified regulations protecting traditional residential architecture proposed by experts and the diverse construction transformation performed by locals. Previous studies have failed to grasp the essence of traditional building habits responding to natural challenges.
