Why are the rooftops of Prince Kung's Palace green? Far from being a decoration, the roof tile color reflects a strict hierarchy of status in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) architecture. Yellow-glazed tiles were reserved exclusively for the imperial buildings, while green-glazed tiles, just one tier below, were used for major structures such as city gates, princely residences, and temples. Thus, Prince Kung's Palace's green rooftops are a symbol of its noble status.