Editing Chinese architecture (section)

=== Cosmic space ===
The Chinese house was a cosmic space. The house was designed as a shelter to foil evil influences by channeling cosmic energies (''[[qi]]'') by respecting feng shui. Depending on the season, astral cycle, landscape, and the house's design, orientation, and architectural details, some amount of energy would be produced. However, cosmic energy could be used in both moral and immoral ways. The moral way is by adding feng shui to a local community temple. Feng shui could also be used competitively to raise the value of one's house at the expense of others. For example, if someone built part of their house against the norm, their house could be considered a threat, because it was recklessly throwing off cosmic energy. In one detailed account, a fight broke out over feng shui.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Freedman |first1=Maurice |title=Geomancy. Proceedings of the Royal Anthropological Institute |journal=Proceedings of the Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland |issue=1968 |pages=5–15 |date=1969 |publisher=Royal Anthropological Institute |location=London |doi=10.2307/3031743 |jstor=3031703 }}</ref>

Feng shui was also incorporated inside the home. Symmetry, orientations, arrangements of objects, and cleanliness were important factors to direct cosmic energy. Even in poorer homes cleanliness and tidiness were highly desired to compensate for the lack of space. Sweeping was a daily task that was thought to be a purifying act. Chinese historian [[Sima Guang]] writes, "The servants of the inner and outer quarters and the concubines all rise at the first crow of the cock. After combing their hair, washing, and getting dressed, the male servants should sweep the halls and front courtyard; the doorman and older servants should sweep the middle courtyard, while the maids sweep the living quarters, arrange tables and chairs, and prepare for the toilet of the master and mistress." The task of cleaning further illustrates, the gender segregation of the Chinese household.<ref name="Bray" />