Harbin Manhattan Mall Interior Renovation

This renovation project is located in Harbin, adjacent to the iconic Saint Sophia’s Church, a nationally protected cultural relic. The building, formerly a distribution center for small commodities, features an original Art Deco façade. Our task involves reimagining its façade and renovating the first-floor interior, balancing its historical significance with contemporary functionality.
Given the proximity to Saint Sophia’s Church, our design approach creates a strong dialogue between the historic landmark and the renovated structure. The new façade embraces a classical aesthetic that aligns with the church’s architectural language but introduces bold, striking colors to create a modern contrast. This duality emphasizes the evolution of the site while respecting its cultural heritage.
For the interior, the inspiration stems from the rich history of the Chinese Eastern Railway, which symbolizes Harbin’s industrial and cultural development. The design incorporates a refined industrial style, catering to the tastes and expectations of the new generation. Materials, textures, and spatial layouts are chosen to evoke the railway's heritage while fostering a modern, vibrant atmosphere suitable for contemporary use.
This project aspires to transform the space into Harbin's most extraordinary cultural travel and leisure destination. It aims to provide a platform for exploration and discovery, sparking diverse consumer behaviors and creating new possibilities. By breaking traditional boundaries and integrating trendy, contemporary elements, the renovation seeks to re-attract visitors and shape a distinctive, dynamic environment that connects history, culture, and modernity.
This renovation harmonizes past and present, blending Art Deco elements, cultural reverence, and modern aesthetics to reinvigorate the space and enhance its connection to the community.