[Video/WeChat account: hafbwx]

The former residence of Chen Lei (1877-1938), a renowned calligrapher in Hai'an, Nantong, is expected to open to the public soon after being renovated.

The front gate of Chen Lei's former residence. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Founded in 1933, the former residence is a Chinese-style building with grey bricks and black tiles that Chen's son donated to the local government to serve as a temporary shelter for homeless people.

The restored former residence. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

Due to large number of inhabitants and lack of maintenance, the main structure of the residence has been damaged.

During renovations, Hai'an invited experts to examine the repair plan, which states that traditional methods will be employed and modern construction materials will not be used.

Chen was known for writing poetic proses when he was a teenager, and in his twilight years he studied calligraphy using both cursive handwriting and regular script.

Chen used to work as deputy speaker of the city council and principal of the Yijie Houjie First Primary School.

Address: No 25 Renminxi Road, Hai'an, Nantong

The restored former residence. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]