A Study on the Principles and Models of the Structures of Classical Chinese Gardens and Western Gardens Based on Myths

Using the typology and pattern language as theoretical base and comparison and analysis as research methods, this paper points out the space structure features of classical Chinese and Western gardens after discussing the ideal space structures for human beings in their myths, and summarizes four modes of ideal space in the world as well as their space structure modes: the cross-shaped mode,one pool with one hill,one pool with three islands, and enclosure and opening. It also analyzes the reasons for structure differences between classical Chinese gardens and Western ones, and explains the factors leading to the complicated space structure in classical Chinese gardens.