This is an example of an upper, middle-class siheyuan (villa or courtyard house). These houses exist, in one form or another, in all of the major cities throughout the Middle Empire. Though the number of rooms and courts differ depending upon social rank, enforced via strict guidelines, the general layout remains much the same from family to family. The building, like most every building, is laid out on a north-south axis, with the entrance facing south. The main courtyard, and the main (north) hall, are the central focus of the building. Wealthier people have elaborate gates and multiple courts. While less fortunate people have simple gates, or none at all, and just the central yard. Some homes have multiple families dwelling wihin.