Revitalized arcades give college a degree of style

After a three-year restoration, the arcades of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College in Beijing have been revitalized, once again showcasing the vibrant colors of the early 20th-century artwork adorning their eaves.

The structure comprises two curved arcades connecting the buildings in the medical college, serving as a vital component of the architectural heritage of the institution. The colorful patterns exhibit a blend of simplicity and elegance, with smooth and gentle lines merging traditional Chinese decorative motifs with Western floral designs.

"It embodies the essence of modern medicine, encompassing both scientific and humanistic elements. The arcades reflect the humanistic connotations and taste within the architecture of the school," Wang Chen, president of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, said at the restoration launch ceremony early this year.

"The arcades not only showcase the form of Chinese architecture, but also symbolize the integration of disciplines and the collaboration within the medical school."

The restoration project is supported by the National Cultural Heritage Administration and the Beijing Municipal Cultural Heritage Bureau with special funds allocated.

Previously repurposed as office space with added ceilings, the school carried out a comprehensive restoration in 2021. During the removal of side walls from the gatehouses and the two arcades, remnants of the colorful paintings more than 100 years old were uncovered and identified.