The Exchange: A Glimpse into Shanghai's Glamorous Past

A Fusion of History and Modernity

The Exchange Bar stands as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Its design language draws inspiration from the opulence and allure of 1930s Shanghai, a time when the city was a melting pot of Western influences and traditional Chinese customs. The bar exudes a sense of flamboyance and mystery, with its flashy and gorgeous aesthetic juxtaposed with an air of introversion and self-sustainability.

Upon entering the bar, guests are transported to the heyday of Shanghai through carefully curated design elements. The old newspapers at the entrance and the dining table covered with coins evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the stage, shaped like a vault, and the two private boxes reminiscent of an account room, tell the story behind the bar's name, "The Exchange."

Chasing Wang and the design team employed a variety of materials and techniques to bring their vision to life. From bespoke wallpapers and handmade tiles to ancient mirrors and marble accents, every detail was carefully chosen to recreate the atmosphere of 1930s Shanghai. The use of dark wood veneer, black oak veneer, and mother-of-pearl inlay adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the space.

Despite the challenges posed by the historically protected building and limited space, the design team successfully created a functional and visually captivating bar. The fusion style of Shanghai in the 1930s takes center stage, with a golden turntable serving as the visual centerpiece. This turntable, reminiscent of a bank vault, symbolizes the essence of "exchange" and illuminates the space with its grandeur.

The Exchange Bar has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. In 2022, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious accolade celebrates the bar's ingenuity and resourcefulness in incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology.

Step into The Exchange Bar and experience the allure of Shanghai's glamorous past. Let the fusion of history and modernity transport you to a bygone era, where the spirit of exchange and cultural diversity thrived.