Pudong Funlife: A Home Away from Home

Creating a Unique Food Mall and Residential Space

Pan Mok explored the local streets of Shanghai and drew inspiration from various interesting elements such as light bulb lights and useful drainage tubes. These elements have been incorporated into the design, adding character and charm to the space.

What sets Pudong Funlife apart is the conversion of an old building into a "home feeling food mall" and residential area. The main concept is to create a sense of belonging and comfort for visitors. The food mall showcases traditional Chinese food stalls on the first floor, offering a wide variety of local delicacies. The second floor houses restaurants, while the third floor serves as an educational center. The fourth and fifth floors are dedicated to residential living.

Technologically, the design utilizes Aluca Aluminium Panels, local Chinese tiles, bronze metal tubes, and plastic tubes. The main entrance features a 5000mm long aluminum panel, while the floors are adorned with locally sourced tiles. The metal and plastic tubes, with a diameter of 100mm, are painted in vibrant colors, adding a touch of modernity to the design.

Pudong Funlife aims to create an immersive experience for visitors. The absence of doors at the entrance and the double-height food stalls allow for easy navigation and a seamless flow. The use of light bulbs for lighting, a typical design element in Shanghai, creates a relaxed and inviting ambiance, reminiscent of being back home.

The project, which started in March 2016 and was completed in November 2017, was driven by the desire to create a sense of "home" for visitors. The design team focused on incorporating elements that evoke a feeling of being in a neighborhood community. Louvers and newly opened windows were added to improve the facade, giving it a modern and clean look.

Designing Pudong Funlife came with its own set of challenges. Encouraging tenants to design attractive balconies for their food stalls proved to be a task, requiring the team to provide guidance and incentives. Additionally, color control and careful selection of food stalls were crucial to maintaining a cohesive and visually appealing space. The inclusion of a skylight over the staircase allows for natural light to filter in, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere even during snowy weather.

Pudong Funlife is a testament to the transformation of an old building into a vibrant and welcoming space. By incorporating unique design treatments and traditional Chinese food stalls, this project offers visitors a truly immersive experience. Whether you're craving local delicacies, looking for a cozy restaurant, or seeking an educational center, Pudong Funlife has it all. It's a place where you can truly feel at home.

Image Credits: Kimi Guan/Kimi guan/Designer

Awards and Accolades: Pudong Funlife was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018 in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Pudong Funlife stands out for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world through fulfillment and positive experiences.