Shanghai New Bund Mansion: A Modern Ode to Old Shanghai

Jian Zhang’s experience center fuses heritage with contemporary luxury

Guided by the theme of time, Jian Zhang’s design for the Shanghai New Bund Mansion draws inspiration from the city’s storied past, reinterpreting classic elements with a fresh, fashionable sensibility. The project serves as a “translation of local culture,” seamlessly merging the nostalgic charm of Old Shanghai with the sleek lines and refined materials of contemporary architecture. This approach not only honors the city’s heritage but also positions the mansion as a unique destination within Shanghai’s luxury residential landscape.

The interior unfolds as a cinematic journey, beginning in an elevator hall draped in sumptuous green velvet. Visitors are welcomed into a sophisticated reception area, where an arc-shaped stone wall, a minimalist black desk, and twinkling star-like lights set an elegant tone. Guiding signs embedded in the floor direct the flow of guests, while a mirrored ceiling amplifies the sense of height and drama, even within the constraints of a low-ceilinged office building environment.

Spanning 1,200 square meters, the mansion is divided into two primary zones. The south side evokes the quiet luxury of a Shanghai-style hotel, dedicated to reception and display, while the north side introduces an outdoor garden concept. Here, four model rooms are arranged around a vibrant courtyard, immersing visitors in a lush, interactive environment that hints at the future lifestyle envisioned for residents.

One of the project’s standout achievements lies in its adaptive design solutions. Office buildings typically feature enclosed, core-centered layouts with limited floor heights, posing significant challenges for creating an open, inviting experience center. Through innovative spatial strategies—such as the use of visual focal points, clever ceiling treatments, and carefully scaled architectural elements—Jian Zhang successfully transforms these limitations into opportunities for creativity and distinction.

The Shanghai New Bund Mansion has garnered international acclaim, earning the prestigious Golden A’ Design Award in 2025 for its outstanding contribution to interior space, retail, and exhibition design. The project’s visual language and spatial concepts are set to influence future developments in the area, establishing a new identity for Lujiazui and reinforcing the brand’s reputation for blending modernity with timeless elegance.

By capturing the aesthetic and cultural essence of its era, Shanghai New Bund Mansion stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in shaping both lifestyle and urban identity. Its success signals a promising direction for the integration of heritage and innovation in contemporary architecture.