yinjispace

INTERIOR
Shu Tian Design
PHOTOGRAPHY
Boris Shiu
EDITOR
Gina
Collection

From a riverside fishing village and industrial docks to a vibrant hub of art and culture, Xuhui Riverside has evolved through time, accumulating a distinctive urban texture unique to Shanghai. Rooted in this remarkable context, Anlan Shanghai embraces the design concept of “interwoven through time, where old meets new.” Guided by the principles of “Preservation, Integration, and Renewal,” the project incorporates intangible cultural heritage lacquer craftsmanship, traditional artisanal techniques, and local riverside elements into contemporary spaces. Through this approach, the enduring spirit of old Shanghai enters into a gentle dialogue with modern aesthetics, creating a multidimensional cultural setting that accommodates art, social interaction, elegant gatherings, and everyday life.

Stepping into the community lobby, the space unfolds like an artistic promenade along the riverbank. A bespoke screen created by Master Song Zhifeng serves as the visual centerpiece. Drawing inspiration from the changing colors of the Xuhui waterfront throughout the seasons and from dawn to dusk, it layers the hues of river mist, emerald waters, sunset glow, vegetation, and historic villas into a richly textured composition. At the center of the screen, original stones sourced from the Huangpu River are embedded and engraved with the site’s coordinates, permanently preserving the memory of the riverbank. Linen-based lacquer craftsmanship outlines the frame, seamlessly bridging traditional techniques and contemporary design. Nearby, large lacquer artworks are built up in layers, evoking the traces left by the ebb and flow of the tides. Sculptural sofas paired with ceramic coffee tables and floor lamps soften the atmosphere, ensuring that every arrival is accompanied by a powerful artistic experience.

Passing through the lobby into the entrance hall, a carefully ordered arrangement instills the space with a profound sense of ceremony. Six groups of custom-designed chandeliers are aligned vertically, weaving together metal and textured glass as shifting light and shadow follow each step, enhancing the depth of the space. The statement lighting embodies the refined elegance distinctive to Shanghai style, introducing warmth and softness into a rational spatial order, and completing the transition from reception to the inner realm.

As the central social venue, the executive lounge has been conceived as a contemporary collector’s living room. Clearly defined zones—including casual meeting areas, formal discussion spaces, and a central bar—complement one another. Velvet, parchment finishes, and vintage furnishings combine to create an atmosphere of relaxed elegance conducive to conversation. Vintage glass chandeliers continue the overarching design language, their shimmering light recalling the social glamour of old Shanghai. Lacquer and resin artworks displayed throughout the space draw inspiration from riverside pebbles and the imprints of historic docks, capturing the fluidity of the river landscape and the traces of passing time within each object.

Enclosed by draped curtains, the VIP room forms a tranquil retreat of its own. Warm-toned furnishings, artistic paintings, and a fireplace come together to create a setting rich in ritual and perfectly suited for exclusive private meetings. The cigar lounge embodies a calm and understated sophistication. A dark-toned palette paired with vintage woodwork conveys effortless refinement. Three leisure areas are arranged in a staggered composition, while bright yellow armchairs subtly enliven the visual hierarchy. Black woven leather floor lamps cast restrained, atmospheric light. Photographic works depicting the city freeze moments in time, allowing every tasting experience and conversation to unfold within an ambiance steeped in nostalgia.

Interpreting the refined rhythms of riverside living, the original modular dining table balances practicality with aesthetic appeal. Solid wood, marble, and metallic details coexist harmoniously, while the dining chairs offer both comfort and elegance. A unified lighting design connects the spatial identity, accommodating both dining occasions and casual social gatherings. The private dining room expresses an understated Eastern elegance. Amber-colored glass chandeliers diffuse a gentle glow, while translucent materials create a warm and poetic atmosphere.

Minimalist tables and seating return the focus to human experience, complemented by bespoke floral arrangements that enrich the setting. Adjacent lounge areas balance movement and stillness, embodying the Eastern philosophy of hospitality through subtle sophistication. The private tea room extends this tranquil spirit, where carefully selected objects and furnishings complement one another in perfect harmony. Within the ritual of tea, a sense of ease and timeless serenity unfolds. The entertainment room continues the Art Deco-inspired vintage aesthetic. Classic seating silhouettes paired with the same retro lighting found throughout the project create an atmosphere of relaxed enjoyment, immersing moments of entertainment in the charm of old Shanghai. The independent tea room, meanwhile, adopts a red-and-black palette, with gold-leaf artworks serving as visual focal points. Burl wood tea tables, lacquer side tables, and display cabinets filled with collected objects seamlessly blend Art Deco influences with traditional craftsmanship.

The private boardrooms present a composed and dignified atmosphere. Available in both large and small configurations to accommodate varying business needs, the spaces feature furniture defined by clean, architectural lines paired with parchment table lamps. Contemporary artworks punctuate the walls, introducing artistic warmth into an otherwise rational business setting.

From the welcoming lobby to the diverse functional spaces, from business interactions to leisurely gatherings, Anlan Club remains steadfast in its commitment to a philosophy of coexistence between old and new. Rather than replicating tradition, it reinterprets Eastern sensibilities and the spirit of Shanghai. Rather than following fleeting trends, it allows traditional craftsmanship, local memory, and contemporary space to merge and flourish together. Every object reflects meticulous artistry; every play of light and shadow narrates the passage of time. Along the shores of Xuhui Riverside, this space uses aesthetics as its brush and time as its ink, composing a new chapter in which tradition and modernity coexist in harmony.

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