In the heart of Shanghai‘s historical charm, along Yuyuan Road, sits a 100-year-old house that’s been given a new lease on life by the creative minds at Uchida Shanghai, led by Mitsuhiro Shoji. This incredible transformation, captured by Eiichi Kano‘s skilled lens, reveals a work of art that skillfully marries the vintage with the contemporary, injecting fresh life into a neighborhood echoing its British Concession past.
This historic home, strategically located a few blocks from the bustling main street, captures the spirit of Shanghai’s architectural heritage. However, the passage of time had left its mark, with various renovations carried out by different occupants. Uchida Shanghai took on the challenge to revive the soul of this award-winning historical gem, carefully restoring the south-side additions and the central light garden to reclaim lost floor space.
At the core of this transformation lies a bold design choice – a sculptural spiral staircase that not only reconnects disjointed spaces but elevates the entire dwelling to a new level of architectural finesse. The once-overlooked dimly lit staircase room now stands as the radiant nucleus of light-infused living. The irregular spiral staircase, born out of thoughtful studies, became the unifying force that seamlessly connects rooms on the south and north sides, ingeniously overcoming the challenges posed by the initially staggered construction.
Meet the Creative Force Behind the Project: Mitsuhiro Shoji
Born in 1978 in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa, Japan, Shoji’s multicultural upbringing in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia significantly influenced his unique design perspective. After graduating from Tokyo Denki University with a master’s degree in architecture in 2002, Shoji has been a driving force behind Uchida’s technical design center since 2008. Taking on the role of Uchida Shanghai Design Director in 2012, he has led the firm towards new heights of architectural innovation.
The 100-year-old house on Yuyuan Road, Shanghai, shows Uchida Shanghai‘s commitment to preserving history while injecting contemporary vitality. Through Mitsuhiro Shoji’s visionary design, the residence has transcended time, emerging as a symbol of architectural excellence and a harmonious blend of history and modernity.
Photo Credit: Eiichi Kano