Reporter: This round window is a highlight of the courtyard.
Yi Cun Master: In this courtyard, there are a lot of square structures, but not many round shapes. When I designed it, I purposely added some rounding elements for a visual change.
When you look out from the round window, you will feel that the view is better. The square window is the visual framing that people are used to. Looking through a round window can create some special visual effects.
Reporter: Are there any special designs for the placement of the round window in the courtyard?
Yi Cun Master: When positioning the round window, I considered both the view and the overall landscape architectural support design. One side of the round window supports the vine frame, and the other side is connected to the pavilion. It serves to stabilize both sides. During construction, the pavilion and the grapevine stand were built first. The original intention was to set up a beam between them to strengthen the two sides. It was later designed as a round window, so that both the structure and the landscape effect were taken into consideration.
In addition, the size of this round window, as well as the height, were carefully designed and adjusted. From its size and height above ground, I designed it with care to allow the viewer to gain the best view from various angles.
Steps to make the round window:
1. Draw the actual size and shape of the round window on paper, measure and calculate the diameter, perimeter, the number of wood blocks needed, as well as the length and cutting angle of each block.
2. Cut the wood, put the original window together above paper following the circle drawn before, glue the pieces together with woodworking glue, and reinforce them with nails after the glue is dry.
3. Use a horizontal wood to position the round window to the window frame.
4. Use wood strips to put together the window pattern between the round window and the window frame.
