Defiant 10-Story Home Demolished After Years of Battle

A remarkable 10-story home in Xingyi village, Guizhou province, has been demolished by local authorities, ending a protracted dispute with its owner. Chen Tianming had transformed his family residence into a unique, pyramid-shaped structure of stacked plywood rooms, attracting tourists who noted its resemblance to Studio Ghibli's imaginative creations.

Despite attracting visitors, officials in Guizhou had long flagged the structure, held together by bamboo scaffolding, as a safety hazard due to its lack of building permits. The village itself was undergoing redevelopment for a tourist resort, with Chen's family initially resisting relocation.

In August 2024, the home was officially declared an illegal construction, with Chen ordered to dismantle all additions except the original bungalow. A final notice on May 18, 2026, mandated evacuation by Wednesday morning. Following the deadline, officials escorted Chen and his parents away, confiscated his phone, and proceeded with the demolition.

Chen, who documented the aftermath, is now seeking legal recourse to challenge the forced demolition, arguing it was illegal. He expressed resignation, stating regret was useless against the powerful forces driving the destruction.