A Thematic Review on Hmong Stilted Architecture Publications: Analysis of Patterns and Trends for Future Sustainable-Heritage Studies

Hmong stilt architecture is not only a concentrated embodiment of ethnic culture and ecological wisdom, but also an important issue in contemporary cultural heritage protection and sustainable development. Although the research on Miao stilt houses has gradually increased in recent years, there is a lack of thematic review and analysis of its academic literature to clarify research trends and directions. To fill this research gap, this study systematically reviewed and analyzed 37 academic papers on Hmong stilt architecture from 2015 to 2025 through a thematic review method. With the help of ATLAS.ti 25, this study identified four core research themes: (1) Spatial Morphology; (2) Ecological Adaptation; (3) Cultural Heritage; and (4) Sustainable Digital Conservation. Each theme is further divided into three specific categories, covering key areas such as architectural structure and settlement space evolution, ecological design and green material application, cultural identity and heritage communication, and digital technology application. The study found that the current academic focus has gradually shifted from traditional architectural forms and historical and cultural analysis to ecological adaptation strategies, cultural protection innovation and digital technology applications to promote the sustainable protection and innovative development of stilt architecture in the context of the new era. The analysis results of this study not only systematically sorted out the latest trends and patterns in the study of Hmong stilt architecture, but also provided valuable academic resources and practical guidance for subsequent researchers, designers and policy makers in related fields.