Ever dreamed of living beneath one of the world’s most iconic landmarks? For Jim Spear, a U.S. designer and architect, that fantasy became a reality. Inspired by the Great Wall during President Nixon’s 1972 visit, Spear finally bought a house in Beijing’s Mutianyu Village in 1994—and began a mission to revive forgotten spaces.
🏡 Turning Ruins into Treasures
Spear transformed an abandoned primary school into a vibrant hub with a restaurant, art glass shop, and gallery. But he didn’t stop there. In 2006, he revamped a disused glaze tile factory in nearby Beigou Village into a boutique hotel, blending traditional architecture with modern flair. Talk about a glow-up!
🌏 Bridging Past and Present
His projects aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re preserving history while creating community spaces. For travelers and culture buffs, these spots offer a fresh way to experience China’s heritage. Imagine sipping coffee in a revamped schoolhouse with the Great Wall as your backdrop! 🍵
Spear’s story proves that old walls *can* get new life—with vision and a dash of daring.
