Research on the Spatial Environment Design of Traditional Settlements of Ethnic Minorities in Tropical Rainforest

Traditional settlements in tropical rainforest regions exemplify harmonious coexistence between humans and nature through their ecological and cultural characteristics. The Li ethnic group settlements in Hainan, China, serve as a prominent example, where their architecture and lifestyle demonstrate a profound adaptation to the tropical rainforest ecosystem. Despite this, global research on traditional ethnic minority settlements in tropical rainforest regions has largely concentrated on natural conditions and distribution patterns, with insufficient attention paid to the design elements of spatial morphology. This study focuses on the Li settlements within Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, utilizing field surveys, literature analysis, and questionnaire studies to identify the key design elements of environmental spaces in these settlements. It further explores how the interaction between cultural and ecological factors influences the construction of settlement spaces. By doing so, the research aims to provide a valuable reference for the protection of traditional settlements in tropical rainforest regions globally and underscore the significant role of ethnic minority settlements in preserving cultural heritage and promoting ecological conservation.