In the heart of Hongkou district, history echoes through the walls of nearly century-old buildings, each standing as a living testament to the city's vibrant past. Join us as we explore these architectural gems and uncover the historical charm that continues to captivate both locals and visitors.

Derring Apartments

Nestled at the intersection of Chongming Road, North Jiangxi Road, and Qipu Road in the North Bund, the Derring Apartments have stood for 90 years.

Recently restored to their original glory, these apartments still feature the 1935 elevator and an Art Deco lobby. The architecture blends modern simplicity with Spanish romanticism, highlighted by small arches, round porches, curved gables, and tiled roofs.

In the 1930s, the apartments became a hub for cultural figures such as Zhang Henshui, Ba Jin, Yu Dafu, and Ye Shengtao, earning the nickname "Shanghai's literary salon".

Over the years, the building has served as a hotel, pharmaceutical factory, and trade center. In 2005, it was recognized as one of Shanghai's outstanding historical buildings. Today, it hosts cultural displays, creative offices, and boutique businesses.

Embankment Building

Located at No 400 North Suzhou Road, the Embankment Building was completed in 1935 and stands as a prime example of Art Deco architecture. It was listed as one of Shanghai's outstanding historical buildings in 1994.

Its unique "S" shaped design made it the largest apartment building in Asia at the time, covering 4,170 square meters.

After 1945, the building became home to offices for major film companies such as Columbia Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., serving as a backdrop for numerous films and TV shows depicting Shanghai-style life.

Recent restorations have revived its facade, including the 14 roof wall columns and brown brick walls, preserving its historic charm.

Ramos Ramous Apartment

Now known as the Beichuan Apartment, the Ramos Ramous Apartment at No 2079-2099 North Sichuan Road was built in 1928. Funded by a British investor, this Art Deco building features elegant arch decorations and balconies adorned with ornate cast iron railings.

Lu Xun, a prominent Chinese writer, lived there from 1930 to 1933, publishing over 170 works. The building also hosted other notable figures, including poet Feng Xuefeng and journalist Agnes Smedley. Recent restoration projects have uncovered pristine walls, clear marble patterns, and intricate railings.

Sources: WeChat account of Hongkou district culture and tourism affairs center at "hongkouly", publicity department of the CPC Hongkou district committee