🧱✨ Imagine being so inspired by a place that you decide to make it your home for over 40 years! That's the story of Jim Spear, a designer and architect from the United States who found his heart beneath the Great Wall of China.
Back in 1972, during U.S. President Richard Nixon's historic visit to China, a young Jim was captivated by the majestic Great Wall. He dreamed of one day owning a house nestled beside it. Fast forward to 1994, that dream became a reality when he acquired a home in Beijing's Mutianyu Village. 🌄
But Jim didn't stop at just living his dream; he wanted to share it. He began a renovation journey, transforming an abandoned primary school into a buzzing restaurant, an art glass shop, and a gallery. 🎨🍜 In 2006, his passion led him to rent and revamp a disused glaze tile factory in Beigou Village, turning it into a charming hotel. 🏨
So, what fueled Jim's incredible journey? What's his secret design philosophy? And how did he forge such deep connections with these Chinese villages? Stay tuned as we dive into the inspiring story of a man who built not just structures, but bridges between cultures. 🌏💫
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
