In Shanghai’s neighborhood renovations, Xintiandi stands out as a fashionable and upscale district, while Tianzifang retains a strong urban vibe within the Shikumen lanes. The most artistic and literary landmark is the newly revitalized and internet-famous Yuyuan Road.
Yuyuan Road, stretching across Changning and Jing’an districts, was once known as Shanghai’s “top corner,” comparable to the famous Xiafei Road. It is home to many historic and cultural buildings, with these old structures serving as guardians and storytellers of Shanghai’s urban evolution. As one of Shanghai’s most iconic neighborhoods, Yuyuan Road has seen many successful urban renewal projects over the years, including the Yuyuan Public Market, Yuxiang, Yuyuan, and Yuyuan Department Store.
ART at Yuyuan Road
Recently, Yuyuan Road is on the verge of another transformation. The plot at 984-1008 Yuyuan Road is set for revitalization, promising a fresh experience in this century-old neighborhood: the “Yuyuan Road Art Live Studio”!
Located at the intersection of Yuyuan Road and Jiangsu Road, 984-1008 Yuyuan Road is conveniently adjacent to Exit 7 of Jiangsu Road Station on Metro Lines 2 and 11. Formerly an old residential building with aging architecture, this site is now being redesigned by Sanyi. The renovation aims to blend three key themes: cultural and creative commerce, community livelihood, and art and culture. Through strategies of form renewal, functional upgrades, resource integration, and memory preservation, the project seeks to create a lifestyle filled with meaningful content, enjoyment, warmth, and a forward-looking spirit.
▲ Location Map
▲ Original building and renovation renderings
After a year of construction, this area is ready to come alive again. As the “head” plot of the Yuyuan Art and Life Block in Changning District, it promises to offer exciting new highlights and experiences. Let’s take a sneak peek!
01. Leading a Lifestyle of Young Artistic Creativity
Starting from the ‘head’
A new platform showcasing the young art of Generation Z
At 1000 Yuyuan Road, GENZERO recently opened its doors on the “head” plot of Yuyuan Road. The store’s theme cleverly relates to the “head” concept – it is a hat shop, currently the largest offline hat store in the country.
▲ Store facade © GENZERO
The name GENZERO translates to “Generation Z.” The store owner is from the post-2000 generation, as are most of the product designers and staff. The interior features a trendy workwear style, with hats neatly displayed on shelves — simple yet inviting.
▲ The store’s interior design reflects a workwear aesthetic © GENZERO
GENZERO is more than just a retail store; it serves as a vibrant platform for young artists to showcase their work. The space integrates unique experiences such as art installations, designer collaborations, limited events, exhibitions, and product launches, cultivating a lifestyle rich in youthful artistic creativity.
▲ Recreating the authentic environment of post-2000 graffiti artist Shi Runze’s work
▲ A solitary back-mounted mannequin uses light and shadow to convey a contemplative mood
Paint racks at the back of the space are made from reclaimed wood from demolition and modern iron frames © GENZERO
02. A Place to Unwind After the 9-to-5 Grind
Quiet emotions, no need to show off
Starry sky above, garden below
The building’s second floor features a unique hidden cave with a secret garden designed by the architect. This rooftop courtyard provides a peaceful retreat filled with storytelling and wonder.
▲ Terrace Details
The terrace renovation respects the original rooftop layout. Its design emphasizes sharing, relaxation, and freedom, making it suitable for meditation or social gatherings. The architect envisions a space where visitors can unwind, connect with old and new friends, and enjoy the luxury of slowing down time.
▲ Outdoor music party on the rooftop
In today’s world, there are many ways to escape into nature or the outdoors. Yet, having a secret retreat with a starry sky above and a garden below, right in daily life, offers the perfect healing space after a long 9-to-5 workday.
▲ Night view
03. FM Yuyuan Radio is Coming Soon
FM Yuyuan Radio Station
The new Shanghai public welfare landmark, FM Yuyuan Road Radio Station, will join GENZERO in the “Yuyuan Road Art Live Studio.” This development transforms Yuyuan Road into a “sound road,” inviting visitors to explore cultural landmarks through immersive audio experiences and listen to the story of this historic street.
Additionally, the area preserves the nostalgic flavor cherished by northern Chinese residents — the atmosphere of Ermendong Hutong, where visitors can experience the blend of Shanghai’s old alley charm and the soulful spirit of northern culture in a historic setting.
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