The design of the Forbidden City (Beijing, China), from its overall layout to the smallest detail, was meticulously planned to reflect philosophical and religious principles, and above all to symbolise the majesty of Imperial power.
One example is the layout of buildings that follows ancient customs laid down in the Classic of Rites. Another example is that almost all roofs in the Forbidden City bear yellow glazed tiles (yellow is the color of the Emperor). There are only two exceptions: the library at the ‘Pavilion of Literary Profundity’ which has black tiles (because black was associated with water, and thus fire-prevention) and similarly, the ‘Crown Prince’s residences’ have green tiles (green was associated with wood, and thus growth).