This is a restoration and revitalization project for Shanghai’s century-old Guang Lu Building. Adhering to the four core principles of authenticity, recognizability, minimal intervention, and sustainable utilization, we hoped to restore the building to its original appearance and redefine its function through systematic research, restoration, and redesign.
The surviving original octagonal ceiling in the lobby was restored using the original materials, style, and craftsmanship. Where no historical evidence exists, speculative reconstruction was avoided. Instead, we used neutral grey-toned art paint with mottled, irregular textures to evoke a sense of historical age. This is complemented by neutral grey-toned wall decorations that highlight lighting and atmosphere as focal points. This strategy aims to recreate the original appearance of the architectural space rather than creating a brand new one. Drawing from historical documents, the “amber-coloured ceiling” of the auditorium and the “indirect lighting system” concealed within the mouldings were restored, allowing the artistic geometric dome to stand in stark contrast to the modern minimalist backdrop.
The project introduces the concept of a “black box” space, transforming the auditorium across the first to third floors into a highly flexible, multifunctional “container” capable of hosting fashion shows, concerts, art exhibitions, and other events. It creates an intermediate state between the extremes of ruin and complete renovation, enhanced by movable installations and furniture, seamlessly adapting to future functional expansion needs.
Through this well-planned renovation project, the historic building is protected while preserving its current architectural structure. The architectural spaces and components are categorized according to their assessed value. Moreover, targeted functional transformations ensure the reasonable, orderly, and sustainable utilization of the historic building.