|
Shanghai-East Meets West
Shikumen (stone gate) is a piece of early 20th century architecture unique to
Shanghai. Different from the inviting and flashy architecture along the Bund,
the low-profile residential buildings, located along the Huihuai Road Middle,
are fascinating in that they display a wonderful mix of East and West. Shikumen
were designed in a traditional Chinese architectural style popular in Eastern
China in the 1920s. However European-style pediments (the triangle part above
the building entrance) and arches have been incorporated and are still used.
Today this hybrid style remains a Shanghai trademark.
 Xin Tian Di
The driving dynamism of Shanghai over the past two decades has made it clear
that high-rises will soon be replacing Shikumen. Is there a way to preserve
Shanghai's cultural heritage while keeping it competitive internationally? Xin
Tian Di may be the answer.
As part of an ambitious redevelopment project, most of the old stone
buildings in Shikumen have been turned into a cluster of boutiques, clubs,
restaurants or chic cafes. The result of this effort is Xin Tian Di.
A dynamic and controversial project, Xin Tian Di has become the hottest new
entertainment district in Shanghai. It's interesting and controversial as well
that Xin Tian Di has brought a fashionable lifestyle while the original
appearance of old Shikumen has been preserved. Xin Tian Di (New Heaven Earth)
intends to revolutionize the city's entertainment, shopping and dining. Already,
it's set a new benchmark for style that is fast being replicated throughout
China. The success of the project could be a role model for historical
redevelopment across Asia.
|
|
E-Mail
This Article 
Print
Friendly Format 
