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EntertainmentGuizhou Province, China

An Unyielding Dream: The Tower that Stands Against Orders

A Chinese man defies demolition orders, transforming his home into a captivating 11-story tower, drawing tourists from afar.

By Vivian Wang and Andrea VerdelliSource: nytimes.com1 min read
An Unyielding Dream: The Tower that Stands Against Orders
Image via nytimes.com

In brief

In the rural landscape of Guizhou Province, Chen Tianming's whimsical 11-story tower not only defies local demolition orders but has become a tourist attraction, showcasing resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.

In a remarkable display of determination, Chen Tianming, a 43-year-old resident of Guizhou Province, China, has transformed his modest home into a quirky 11-story tower, much to the bewilderment of local authorities and visitors alike. Defying multiple demolition orders, Chen's house resembles a fantastical creation from a Dr. Seuss story, reaching skyward in a delicate balance of construction that draws curious tourists from across the region.The tower's design features an eclectic mix of dark red wooden rooms that steadily diminish in size as they ascend. Standing on a foundation that seems precarious, the structure is camouflaged against fields of knee-high grass, shaping an unusual skyline that speaks to Chen’s spirit and ingenuity. The interior of the tower reflects its unconventional build, with ceilings braced by repurposed utility poles and exposed wires dangling overhead, adding to its eccentric character. Inside, visitors can find unique rooms such as a cozy reading nook and an open-air tearoom, all connected by narrow ladders resting at precarious angles.Despite external criticism about the house's stability, Chen climbs effortlessly, embodying the idea that home is where the heart is, rather than defined by conventional standards. This whimsical tower has caught the eyes of tourists, intrigued not only by its artistic design but also by the story of its creator, who bravely continues to construct his dream amid local skepticism. As neighboring standard apartment buildings rise around him, Chen remains unapologetically steadfast in his choice to build high rather than conform, inviting all who venture to witness his remarkable creation.

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