A Fusion of History and Modernity in Jing’an
In the bustling north Jing’an district of Shanghai, a groundbreaking renovation project is set to redefine urban workspace. Spanning 35,000 m^2, this ambitious endeavor encompasses a high-rise office building, an expansive 5-floor open office podium, and a former printing press building poised for transformation into a creative office space. This unique blend of structures promises a vibrant future for Pengpai, one of China’s leading online news media companies, by merging traditional architecture with cutting-edge design.
Unlocking Spatial Potential
The heart of this project lies in its diverse interior spaces, derived from the existing buildings’ varied heights and historical uses. These distinctive volumes offer a canvas ripe for innovation, providing numerous opportunities to craft dynamic, functional environments. From expansive, open-plan offices to intimate creative studios, the project is a testament to the versatility and potential hidden within Shanghai’s architectural heritage.
Inspiration from the Printing Press
Our design concept pays homage to the site’s legacy as a former printing facility, drawing inspiration from the revolutionary printing press. By envisioning the facade as a stack of papers, we’ve infused parts of the tower with a sense of motion and history. Furthermore, the use of movable characters from the Gutenberg press as a motif creates a textured curtain wall, with protruding modules that play with light and shadow. This architectural approach not only reflects Pengpai’s journalistic roots but also symbolizes the imprint of stories and information on society.
A Hub of Creativity and Innovation
The transformation of the printing press building into a hub for creative offices epitomizes the project’s vision. The central courtyard, surrounded by floors of varying heights—once home to massive printing machinery and material storage—now stands ready to host a diverse array of creative ventures. This adaptive reuse not only preserves a piece of Shanghai’s industrial heritage but also provides a fertile ground for ideas and innovation to flourish under Pengpai’s banner.
A New Chapter for Pengpai
As Pengpai moves into these revitalized spaces, the project stands as a beacon of architectural and cultural regeneration in Shanghai. By skillfully blending the historical essence of the buildings with modern design principles, the renovation not only provides Pengpai with a state-of-the-art news hub but also contributes to the vibrancy and dynamism of the north Jing’an district. This endeavor marks a new chapter for Pengpai, one where history and innovation converge to define the future of news and media workspaces.
