Category: Shanghai


as easy as A, B, C…?

I’m not entirely sure why it has taken me so long to write a post about AB Concept. Not only are they one of Hong Kong’s preeminent design firms, they happen to be the first design firm I worked for in Hong Kong.  If you haven’t heard of them before, you’re sure to very soon.  They’ve just published their first monograph – “The Language of Luxe” – covering the last 10 years of their work, some of which I was involved in.  Very sweetly, my name features in the list of dedications at the back, along with all past and current staff.  Its available now for pre-order on Amazon, and is already in bookstores in Hong Kong.

One of the many finished projects featured in the book is the somewhat recently completed Shàng-Xí restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel, Shanghai. Its a good example of the level of detail and refinement in their designs and the selection of unusual and luxurious materials.  Its been forever since I was last in Shanghai, and its definitely on my list of places to return…so I might just have to make a special trip to check this place out…

 

 

I particularly love the use of real bird feathers here, I have wanted to use those on a project since I first saw them.

Xintiandi

One of my favorite places to visit when in Shanghai is Xintiandi. A former residential area, which has since been redeveloped – Xintiandi has not only allowed for the preservation of beautiful orignal “Shikumen” buildings (a type of residential architecture unique to Shanghai), it has also created a hub of dining, retail and entertainment for locals, expats and tourists alike.


Xintiandi is not far from the Times Square shopping centre – so if you are visiting Shanghai soon, this is one part of city you should add to your itinerary!

Cool bars of the world…5

Another cool looking bar, one I haven’t been to – but is on my list of to do’s soon, the Glamour Bar in Shanghai is very chic. I love the way they have managed to capture the style of 1930’s Art Deco era in Shanghai – but in a modern way. I don’t have the details of who designed this place, so I will update when I find the info. But I will definitely be checking this place out next time I’m in Shanghai!
(This is my favorite image – love those pink Haines-looking lounge chairs and deco detailing of the lights!)


(The famous cocktails at Glamour Bar, and view of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower at night).

(The fabulous view of the Bund from the Glamour Bar during the day).