In a groundbreaking legal victory for IP rights in architecture, Beijing-based Vector Architects has successfully won a Chinese copyright infringement claim against a developer who copied the design of its internationally acclaimed Seashore Chapel building. In a rare and historic ruling, the Chinese court has ordered the demolition of the infringing structure, marking the first time such a penalty has been applied in an architectural copyright case in China.
The legal dispute centred around a building in the seaside town of Beidaihe, which highly resembled the Seashore Chapel, designed by Vector Architects in 2015. The infringing structure, constructed by developer, Henan Jingkaili Real Estate, mimicked the building’s distinct design, materials, and spacious layout. Vector Architects filed a claim alleging that the replica violated Chinese copyright law, which recognises architectural works as protected intellectual property.
In February 2025, a lower court ruled in favour of Vector Architects, and held that the similarities between the two buildings were substantial and went far beyond acceptable inspiration. The court ordered the demolition of the infringing building and awarded Vector Architects ¥20,000 (approximately $2,790 USD which equals £2,079 GBP) in damages. That decision was appealed but recently upheld by Xinxiang Intermediate People’s Court of Henan Province, an intermediate court in Beijing, ratifying the judgment and the order for the removal of the building.
A spokesperson for Vector Architects said: “This ruling is not only a victory for us, but a milestone for architectural authorship and copyright enforcement in China… It sends a clear message that creative integrity must be respected.” Overall, this sets a powerful precedent in the industry as this is the first time that a building has been ordered to be demolished as a result of a finding of copyright infringement.
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