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.