Nestled in the bustling heart of Shanghai, Nanchang Road stretches 1.7 kilometers through the Huangpu and Xuhui districts. A treasure trove of historical architecture, the street offers a vivid glimpse into the dynamic life of old Shanghai. Here, stories and legends are woven into the very fabric of the street, waiting to be uncovered.

Since 2019, a phased renovation project has breathed new life into Nanchang Road's historic buildings. These efforts have preserved the area's rich heritage while integrating modern fashion with Shanghai’s unique charm. Most recently, three landmark buildings have been revitalized, inviting locals and tourists alike to explore their storied pasts.

First stop: Joffre Terrace

Built in 1924, Joffre Terrace exemplifies lilong architecture, also known as shikumen — traditional low-rise row houses that blend Chinese and European elements. Its orderly chimneys, red brick walls, tiled roofs, and triangular gables give it a quiet, dignified presence.

Historically, Joffre Terrace was home to upper-middle-class residents, such as doctors, architects, and bank employees, as well as notable figures like Zhu Kezhen, a pioneer in Chinese geography and meteorology (No 26); renowned writer Ba Jin (No 59); and master painter Xu Beihong (No 99).

The recent renovation carefully restored ironwork windows, balcony railings, and street-facing shop doors, along with the decorative pillars of the low walls, all in line with the original designs.

Second stop: Nanchang Building

Originally known as the Astrid Apartments, the Nanchang Building was completed in 1933 and stands as a testament to Shanghai’s Art Deco style. Its entrance threshold, prominent spire, and geometric eaves are complemented by cream and light green facing tiles. The building's decorative motifs, featuring celestial bodies and natural elements, also add to its unique charm.

The restoration project covered the facade, roof, and public interior spaces. Drawing from historical research, the project revived its 1950s appearance, including the corner facade's floor-to-ceiling windows, now returned to their original height to enhance the building's historical integrity.

Third stop: Zhonghe Apartments

Zhonghe Apartments comprise two sections: Hiller Apartments and Ida Apartments, reflecting their respective construction periods. The Hiller Apartments, located on the west side of South Maoming Road, feature a five-story design with ground-floor commercial spaces. The Ida Apartments, at the southwest corner of Nanchang and South Maoming Roads, follow a similar layout.

The renovation restored original canopies, glass skylights, and dark gray terrazzo on the ground level. Original door and window styles were reinstated, and the ground-floor shop layout was also revived according to historical designs.

Fourth stop: The most beautiful intersection

Beyond the historic architecture, the intersection of Nanchang Road and South Maoming Road is a harmonious blend of history and natural beauty, dotted with poetic spots.

Tagore Garden, a serene reading area, features a prominent statue of the Nobel Prize-winning poet Rabindranath Tagore and offers a tranquil space for quiet reflection.

Nearby, the "most beautiful balcony" enchants passersby with cascading pink flowers, blending Eastern and Western cultures through roses and peonies.

The Ruijin science and life pavilion adds another layer of cultural depth, spotlighting wellness and food therapy. Its current exhibition, The Music Score of Hudec Buildings in Shanghai, explores the life and architectural legacy of Laszlo Hudec, a key figure in shaping 1930s Shanghai.

Each building along Nanchang Road holds a story worth remembering. These silent sentinels of time reflect generations of evolving life and highlight the rich, layered character of Shanghai. Take a stroll down Nanchang Road and discover your perfect spot!

Sources: WeChat accounts of Shanghai Municipal Commission of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, ShanghaiWOW, Huangpu district government, and Ruijin Road Number Two subdistrict, Shanghai Historical Building Protection Administration Center