Amazing Shell House in China

This traditional Chinese house on the secluded Lingshan Island (off the eastern coast of China) recently had an interesting makeover. Owner Xiao Yongsheng initially wanted to renovate it using modern designers and architects. However, Yongsheng was put off by the high cost of the construction due to the location. What he did instead is pretty amazing.

Instead of hiring contractors, Yongsheng started collecting shells from the beach.

Over the next two years, Yongsheng managed to cover the entire house with seashells.

Here's how Yongsheng describes his project: "I'd always liked shells, but it never struck me to use them until I was walking on a beach one morning and came across a very unusually colored clam shell and then it hit me. I realized I was sitting next to a huge, free supply of beautiful building material."

“I used them for everything,” he said. “For decoration, for roof tiles, as handles, and even crushed up to make mosaics. They are everywhere.”

At the moment, the house is used as a museum for displaying the history of the island and local fishermen.

What started as a pet project quickly became the most popular tourist attraction on Lingshan Island.

This house is sure to cause some waves in the design community. You have to admire the dedication it took to accomplish something like this. The house is just so fascinating.