Centennial Shameen: Revitalizing History through Architecture Activation

Transforming a Historical Building into a Multifunctional Cultural Space

Located at No.41 Shamian Street, Centennial Shameen stands proudly on the central axis of Shamian Island. The project, which began in May 2020 and was completed in January 2021, pays homage to the concept of protecting and reusing historical buildings. It serves as a testament to the preservation of heritage while embracing modernity.

The exterior of the building retains its original style, with symmetrical forms, precise proportions of doors and windows, and intricate moldings. Stepping through the gate, visitors are transported into a world of ceremonial elegance and spatial innovation.

One of the unique features of Centennial Shameen is the insertion of a steel interlayer within the 260 square-meter space. This addition takes advantage of the high ceiling height of 4.55 meters and creates different layers within the building. A mezzanine space with an independent frame structure has been added locally, maximizing the existing space and opening up new possibilities.

New materials, new forms of design, and the latest lighting techniques have been seamlessly integrated into the classical space, creating an interactive dialogue with the old pillar system. The relationship between the new and the old is clear, with the new elements respecting the integrity of the original structure.

Centennial Shameen serves as an open public space that reconnects the community and integrates seamlessly into the urban context. The design language is concise and lively, allowing the space to showcase the pure beauty of decoration. It awakens the long-dormant state of the historical building, breathing new life into its walls.

The project faced several challenges, including the need to create a transition at the entrance that stood out from the old sense of form. By incorporating new materials and design techniques, the contrast between the old and the new was emphasized, resulting in a captivating collision of styles.

The Centennial Shameen project has been recognized for its excellence and innovation. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2022 in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Centennial Shameen stands as a testament to the integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, contributing to a better world.

Centennial Shameen is not just a building; it is a celebration of history, culture, and design. By transforming a historical relic into a vibrant cultural space, Way Architects has created a place where the past and the present coexist harmoniously, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of architecture and the stories it holds.