The project is situated on the fourth floor of Shanghai Grand World and had long been left vacant as a waiting area prior to renovation. Collaborating with the drama studio posed significant challenges this time. Our goal was to leverage the cultural revitalization of the Grand World to breathe new social energy and vitality into this space, ultimately creating a bar where patrons can experience the essence of theater.
Before renovation: an empty waiting area
△ After renovation: a bar space with theatrical and thematic features
As the curtain rises, guests can enjoy a slightly tipsy performance, sip on drinks that blend into the show, and afterward find a vibrant social space beyond the performance.
From a design perspective, the boundaries of usable space were redefined to preserve as much of the building’s original features—walls and floors—as possible. A flexible, adaptable curtain system was introduced, drawing inspiration from the curtain elements that have symbolized generations of Shanghai’s theatrical memories associated with the Grand World, while also offering the space multiple functional possibilities.
△ Interior of the bar
Variable curtain system
During performances, the enclosed curtains create an intimate, mysterious theater environment. After the show, the semi-enclosed curtains transform the space into a bar area ideal for socializing, seamlessly integrating theater and bar functions.
△ The space supports customized performances, combining the experiences of drinking and theater watching
△ Performance scene (Image source: Difficult to Satisfy Drama Studio)
The original semi-outdoor cantilever was separated from the main area, resulting in low utilization. We integrated this space by removing the original glass doors and connecting the cantilever platform to the main area without altering the existing structure. Curtains isolate the external urban noise, creating a focused space for rest and performances, revitalizing the previously unused platform.
Before renovation: External space enclosed and underutilized
△ After renovation: The external platform transformed into an independent, focused space
△ Post-renovation view connecting the elevated platform and the main bar area
Due to the narrow external corridor, solid walls were avoided in favor of curtains as flexible dividers between internal and external spaces, allowing the boundaries to adapt as needed.
△ Real-life photo of the public corridor
To protect the historic building and avoid damage to the walls, we implemented the X-Post modular support system. The suspended laminated board consists of stainless steel brackets and acrylic panels, hanging from aluminum columns via pins. The suspension height is adjustable, creating a mesmerizing visual effect of wine glasses floating in midair.
△ Construction detail of suspended wine rack node
△ Realistic photo of the suspended wine rack
Project Drawings
△ Floor plan
Project Information
Project Name: A Difficult to Satisfy BAR
Project Type: Indoor Renovation
Location: No. 98, Big World, 4F Star Space, No. 1, Xizang South Road, Shanghai
Design Firm: Uncertainty Lab / Indefinite Design
Lead Architect: Xie Jinjun
Complete Design Team: Xie Jinjun (Lead), Lei Jing
Owner: Difficult to Satisfy Drama Studio
Status: Completed
Design Date: November 2022
Construction Date: April 2023
Land Area: 122 square meters
Building Area: 122 square meters
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