Fu Apartment by FMD: A Subtle Transformation of a 1990s Residential Block in Shanghai

Located in the historic fabric of Jing’an District near Yishan Road in Shanghai, the Fu Apartment is a remarkable residential renovation project by FMD Architects. Originally built in the 1990s, this 860-square-meter structure stood as a modest yet unique building in a rapidly evolving urban environment. Interwoven with aging low-rise neighborhoods and surrounded by the ever-growing high-rise developments, the project represents a thoughtful and minimal intervention aimed at preserving the building’s original identity while enhancing its functionality and architectural character.

Contextual Harmony: A Building Between Eras

Unlike the predominant north-south residential layout in the vicinity, the Fu Apartment adopts an east-west orientation, distinguishing it from the surrounding fabric. This atypical orientation, coupled with the juxtaposition of old low-rises and contemporary commercial towers, adds depth and urban texture to the site.

The main building is three stories tall, with a four-story northern wing. A spacious private courtyard on the southern side and smaller-scale courtyards on the east and west offer a multi-directional spatial arrangement. Originally functioning as a kindergarten and later repurposed as office space, the building had undergone several modifications over the years. These past transformations introduced a layered architectural language—balconies, terraces, and varying roof decks—which added both complexity and charm to the overall structure. Architecturally, the building employs a hybrid structural system of partial brick-concrete and frame elements, while its modernist, minimalist style is enhanced by linear balconies on the east and south façades.

A Philosophy of Minimal Intervention and Strategic Enhancement

FMD approached the renovation with a minimal intervention strategy, aiming to retain as much of the original architectural identity as possible. The goal was to breathe new life into the building without erasing its past. One major challenge was the close proximity to neighboring buildings, especially on the eastern side, where privacy was a concern.

To address this, FMD enclosed previously open corridors by introducing new walls punctuated by precisely placed vertical chain-shaped openings. These thoughtfully calibrated apertures align with room positions and visual axes, allowing natural light and ventilation to enter while safeguarding residents’ privacy. The dual-scale openings—larger on the top and smaller below—introduce a rhythmic façade articulation that is both dynamic and elegant. These sculptural windows are not only practical but also contribute a graceful, refined atmosphere to the interior spaces.

Reinterpreting Tradition Through Balcony Design

A distinctive feature of Shanghai’s older western-style homes is their balconies and ornamental handrails. In the Fu Apartment, this cultural element is honored and reinterpreted through the use of custom wrought-iron handrails, crafted in two distinct styles.

The first type is a flat, curved handrail, designed to allow comfortable outward gazing. The second, more complex design is the “kangaroo” handrail—a three-dimensional structure that protrudes slightly to create small seating areas. This architectural gesture extends the idea of the balcony as a space of relaxation and informal interaction with the outside world. The kangaroo handrail’s fabrication posed a significant challenge, requiring advanced 3D modeling, precision craftsmanship, and on-site adjustments during construction to achieve the desired form and finish.

Material Palette and Entry Design: Subtle Contrasts and Urban Texture

At the building’s entrance, FMD introduced a folded concrete system that integrates seamlessly with red brick walls, creating a layered, tactile arrival experience. This interplay of textures helps define circulation while grounding the building’s aesthetic. The exterior walls are coated with a white matte finish, which underscores the minimalist spirit of the renovation, while carefully integrated horizontal red brick lines beneath windows and along rooflines add a touch of warmth and contemporary character.

This subtle yet expressive material contrast—white plaster and red brick—echoes both modern sensibilities and traditional craftsmanship, uniting past and present in a cohesive architectural narrative.

A Catalyst for Community Renewal

More than a standalone transformation, the Fu Apartment project is envisioned as a catalyst for broader urban renewal. FMD’s renovation aligns with the city's "Beautiful Community" initiative, aimed at revitalizing aging neighborhoods and elevating overall living standards. By carefully restoring and upgrading the building without resorting to aggressive redevelopment, the architects offer a model of sustainable urban regeneration that enhances both private dwelling and the collective urban experience.

All Photographs are works of Qingshan Wu