Abstract:To investigate the water adaptation of spatial patterns in traditional settlements, this study analyzed 20 well-preserved settlements around Baiyangdian Lake. The results revealed that traditional settlements in Xiong’an New Area demonstrated significant water adaptability in terms of water-land relationship, settlement morphology, and spatial units, influenced by the long-term effects of dike and weir construction, fishing and reed production, and inland river navigation. Initially, the traditional settlements established a mutual water-land relationship with flood control dikes and weirs. Internal drainage systems comprised ponds and ditches, which were categorized into interconnected and endless types. Additionally, the settlement pattern mainly adopted a ribbon-like or finger-like shape to accommodate the Baiyangdian dike project and inland river navigation. Both the puddling environment and commercial trade played a role in shaping the external contours and internal texture of the settlements. Moreover, the fundamental spatial unit of traditional settlements around Baiyangdian Lake consisted of settlements, deposits, reedbeds, farmland, and ditches. This spatial distribution reflected the traditional gender division of labor, with men primarily engaging in fishing or farming activities and women specializing in weaving. Furthermore, the presence of reed terraces influenced the morphological dimensions of traditional courtyards and buildings in the area. In conclusion, this research highlights the water adaptability of traditional settlements in Xiong’an New Area, considering factors such as the water-land relationship, settlement morphology, and spatial units.