Nestled between picturesque woodland to the north and the vibrant city of Beijing to the south, the Cloud House was described by French President Emmanuel Macron as “a unique edifice that carries within its walls the memory of the city of Beijing while also looking toward the future” in a letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping following his first state visit to China in January 2018.

Built by Huang Rui, a founding member of the avant-garde Stars Art Group (1979–1983) and the visionary behind the famous 798 Art District in Beijing, the Cloud House seamlessly blends ancient Ming and Qing dynasty bricks with contemporary design inspired by the I-Ching (Book of Changes). Until 2018, it hosted exhibitions, performances, and cultural events that fostered collaboration across artistic disciplines and cultures. So emblematic of China’s evolving cultural narrative, it moved the French president to passionately advocate for its preservation when it faced demolition. Concurrently, Huang Rui donated the Cloud House to the government to be preserved as a public space.

In March 2021, following a significant renovation commitment by the Jonathan K.S. Choi Foundation, the government entrusted this iconic mansion to the foundation, which also appointed a team of expert producers of artistic and cultural events to operate it as an international cultural center.

Today, the Cloud House stands as a beacon of cultural diplomacy, partnering with embassies and international organizations to foster cultural exchange and engagement. It remains a living testament to the enduring power of heritage, collaboration, and a shared global future.