IM Shanghai: A Unique Office Development in the Heart of Changning District

Injecting Work, Play, and Culture into an Urban Hub

IM Shanghai, designed by Aedas, is a remarkable office development located in the bustling Changning District of Shanghai. Spanning 40,355 square meters with a total GFA of 157,345 square meters, this project integrates cultural and retail facilities into its design. The site, previously occupied by abandoned factory buildings surrounded by high-density residential blocks, has been transformed into a vibrant urban hub through the vision of urban regeneration.

The strength of IM Shanghai lies in its ability to serve a wider spectrum of the community. By injecting commercial, cultural, conferencing, and leisure amenities, this development becomes a catalyst for vibrancy and growth in the district. The integration of these diverse functions creates a dynamic environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation.

One of the unique features of IM Shanghai is its commitment to sustainability. The project has obtained LEED gold certification, showcasing its dedication to environmental responsibility. The office's serrated façade, tower skylight, and pavilion's roof are integrated with photovoltaic panels, reducing energy consumption and solar gain. Additionally, the treatment of sewage and rainwater re-use is being considered for irrigating the landscaping, further minimizing the project's environmental impact. The use of local stone and materials also reduces transportation costs and supports the local economy.

The design team, led by Christine Lam and David Clayton, faced several challenges during the creation of IM Shanghai. To address the solar constraint imposed by the surrounding residential buildings, the team developed a creative solution: a "mountainous cityscape." Inspired by Chinese landscape paintings, the tower façade design incorporates layering to create a mountainous silhouette. This design not only fulfills the glazing/wall ratio requirement but also adds a unique visual element to the building.

IM Shanghai has garnered recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2022. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence. IM Shanghai stands as a testament to the integration of art, science, design, and technology, contributing to the improvement of quality of life and making the world a better place.

IM Shanghai is a testament to Aedas' commitment to creating innovative and sustainable designs that enhance the urban landscape. With its unique blend of work, play, and culture, this office development has transformed the Changning District into a vibrant and dynamic hub.