AIM has recently completed the architectural and interior renovation of Shanghai Jiajie International Plaza. This project represents AIM’s latest initiative in urban renewal and community revitalization, aiming to create inspiring spaces that engage architecture, the city, and society.
Our approach to urban regeneration is fresh and holistic. We have fully opened up the building—not only enhancing the exterior facade but also revitalizing its core indoor atrium. This transformation injects new energy into the surrounding area, strengthens connections with the local community, and ushers in a greener, more open future for the historic Hongkou neighborhood.
Activation
Before renovation, the shopping mall appeared outdated and dim. Many original tenants had already vacated, and the facade was dominated by large advertising screens. Inside, heavy escalators crowded the atrium, creating a cramped and unwelcoming atmosphere. It was clear that a simple facelift was insufficient; the building needed new vitality.
We saw this as an opportunity to redefine the architecture. The space would no longer be just a shopping center or office building, but a contemporary, integrated environment designed to meet diverse needs.
Before Renovation
After Renovation
Terrace and Staircase
The building’s expansive roof was underutilized. AIM introduced an external structure extending from the interior to the exterior facade, establishing a stronger, more tangible connection with the surrounding community.
The first floor was redesigned to be permeable, opening directly to the street and leading down into a sunken plaza and a spacious atrium flooded with natural light.
The bulky escalators were removed and replaced by staggered ascending staircases that connect the basement to the rooftop, offering panoramic city views.
The architectural language is fluid and seamless. The exterior features a neutral champagne-colored grid, with hidden lighting and abundant greenery on the terraces. These elements breathe new life into the building and the wider community.
Sustainability
Shanghai, as a densely populated international city, has many aging buildings in need of revitalization or replacement. Through the renovation of Jiajie International Plaza, we demonstrate the positive impact of architectural transformation combined with community activation.
The urban interventions applied help conserve resources while enhancing the environmental performance of the existing structure. We honor the community’s collective memory, which forms the foundation for strengthened urban identity and awareness.
This project explores how design can transform old buildings into environmentally friendly spaces without relying on costly technology. Measures include maximizing natural sunlight to save energy, and strategically using terrace shading to reduce indoor heat during summer.
Plants and ventilation are incorporated to create a microclimate that decreases dependence on air conditioning. The atrium replaces energy-intensive escalators with pedestrian staircases. Flexible space usage extends the building’s lifespan and avoids fragile gypsum ceilings prone to damage from HVAC systems.
We carefully considered the public nature of this building. It is designed to become a vibrant new community hub offering diverse functions. The project embodies a hopeful vision: blending intimacy with community spirit to create a brighter, greener, and more varied urban life both indoors and outdoors.
Project Drawings
Plan View
Analysis Chart
Project Information
Owner: Kailongrui Group
Designer: AIM Architectural Design Firm
Location: Shanghai, China
Building Area: 20,658 square meters
Construction Year: 2021
Design Scope: Building facade renovation, interior design, landscape design
Design Directors: Wendy Saunders, Vincent de Graaf
Project Manager: Yan Min
Project Architect: Alba Galan
Design Team: Cao Qian, Kang Jin, Yuan Chen, Zhao Zihan, Li Luyi, Chen Hu, Hu Xiuzhi, Liu Chao, Zhang Yi, Zhang Nan
Soft Decoration Team: Wang Youbaoer
Rendering: Jiao Yan
Landscape Consultant: Qianshang Landscape
Lighting Consultant: Umi Lighting Design
Collaborative Design Institute: Shanghai Urban Architecture Design Co., Ltd
Construction: Shanghai Kangye Building Decoration Engineering Co., Ltd
Supervisor: Shibang Wei Shili
Quantity Surveyor: Shanghai First Surveyors Co., Ltd
LEED Consultant: Gaomi (Shanghai) Architectural Design Consulting Co., Ltd
BIM Consultant: Quanxian Building Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd
Photography: Dirk Weiblen, Aaron Shao
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up