Questions about Guangzhou and China in general

[mustang84]

Hello everyone,

I'm an architecture student from Iowa and I am doing a public housing project in the Tianhe district of Guangzhou. I've done a lot of reading about the history of Guangzhou, the Cultural Revolution, and the migration from rural areas to the cities, but I'm having trouble finding information on Tianhe in specific.

First off, it appears that Tianhe is going through a rapid period of development and gentrification. I've done some reading on urban villages that still exist within the city and both seemed to act pretty negatively toward them. I guess I'm looking for more insight from those of you that live there on what the opinion is of these traditional urban villages, SOE housing, and the transition to market housing that is currently happening. Also, how has Tianhe changed over time, and are there any significant events that occured here?

Most Americans react negatively toward public housing, but is there a different attitude toward it in China? Do the attitudes differ between age groups? From what I've read, it seems like younger generations prefer the newer market housing and immigrants to the city usually can only afford state housing or living in urban villages.

And lastly, I'm just curious about lifestyles and living in China in general. Are there certain activities or traditions that are part of the daily routine?

Sorry for all the questions...it's just that I know little besides what I have read and am really interested in learning more.

Thanks for your help!