What do the Summer Palace, Yuanmingyuan and the Chengde Mountain Resort all have in common? These Qing-dynasty architectural marvels, along with many others, were all built by members of the same family-the Lei family.

For seven generations, the Lei family quietly dominated imperial architecture. Their designs were admirable, varying from grand buildings to public works, such as roads and dams. So incredible was their skill that many of their buildings survived earthquakes and remained standing over hundreds of years.

The Lei family were also pioneering engineers, who used a grid system to plan their projects in minute detail. They took careful notes and made models of their projects, many of which have survived to this day and are registered as part of UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme.

In addition to their architectural achievements, the Lei family showed diligence and humility. Each generation conscientiously learnt their craft and undertook ambitious projects, many of which took years to complete. Yet they did not seek fame, and even today, their great works are associated more with the imperial court than with them.

With their remarkable skills, innovation, diligence and humility, the Lei family leave behind their buildings and the legacy that true craftwork is a treasure that can last beyond a lifetime.