Chong Li was a great scholar during the time of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). His residence is a well-preserved Siheyuan (traditional residential compound with houses around a courtyard) typical of the Qing style. Houses and courtyards of Beijing Siheyuan are symmetrically arranged on the center axis, stretching from south to north. Houses in the south mainly consist of guestrooms, study rooms and storerooms. The main building in the backyard was designated for elder family members, while the east and west wing rooms were for the younger ones. The main building is connected with the wing rooms by an annular corridor. Some larger residences have side yards built on both sides of the main yard and a garden in the rear. Chongli Residence is divided into three parts: the main yard, side yards and the garden. The spacious Siheyuan, ornately and sumptuously furnished, is a typical residence for nobles.