YEARLY PLAN Shanghai Gallery: A Fusion of Heritage and Modern Design

The YEARLY PLAN Shanghai Gallery

The YEARLY PLAN Shanghai Gallery, designed by dong qi Design, is a contemporary architectural masterpiece located on Changle Road in the heart of Shanghai's historic district, Jing An Qu. Completed in 2023, this 430 m² gallery seamlessly integrates modern aesthetics with the city’s traditional urban fabric.

Design Philosophy: Honoring Shanghai’s History

Dongqi Design preserved the original massing of the historical building while introducing modern elements that align with the city’s cultural and architectural legacy. This approach ensures the gallery complements Shanghai’s rich historical context while offering a contemporary experience.

Architectural Highlights

Innovative Structural Design

1. Concrete Piers and Staircases:The gallery features two vertically oriented, special-shaped concrete piers that serve as the central structural support.The piers are hand-chiseled on the exterior for a rugged texture, while their interiors are polished to perfection, creating a striking contrast.The staircase, nestled between these piers, becomes a functional and aesthetic focal point.
2. The gallery features two vertically oriented, special-shaped concrete piers that serve as the central structural support.
3. The piers are hand-chiseled on the exterior for a rugged texture, while their interiors are polished to perfection, creating a striking contrast.
4. The staircase, nestled between these piers, becomes a functional and aesthetic focal point.
5. Steel Roof and Asymmetry:Four steel plates form the asymmetrical roof, each with unique shapes and cantilever distances of up to 7 meters.The structural system appears eccentric yet stable, enhancing the gallery’s dynamic aesthetic.
6. Four steel plates form the asymmetrical roof, each with unique shapes and cantilever distances of up to 7 meters.
7. The structural system appears eccentric yet stable, enhancing the gallery’s dynamic aesthetic.

Transparent and Open Interiors

The building's frameless glass curtain walls blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Visitors can enjoy views of Changle Road or the adjacent courtyard, fostering a connection with the surrounding environment.

Interior Features That Redefine Functionality

Multi-Functional Handrail Design

The staircase handrail is a single, continuous stainless steel rod that:

• Acts as a handrail along the staircases.
• Functions as a clothing display rod in retail areas.
• Integrates space lighting, blending form with function.

Seamless MEP Integration

To maximize floor height and maintain design consistency:

• MEP systems are embedded within the building's structural layers.
• Air conditioning covers are crafted to complement the flooring materials.

Rainwater Management and Natural Ambiance

1. Rainwater Gutters:Proportioned to align with the facade design, creating harmony.Visible water curtain effects appear inside the gallery during rainy weather.
2. Proportioned to align with the facade design, creating harmony.
3. Visible water curtain effects appear inside the gallery during rainy weather.
4. Rainwater Irrigation:Collected water is directed into a custom stainless steel flower pool on the terrace, fostering a natural atmosphere.
5. Collected water is directed into a custom stainless steel flower pool on the terrace, fostering a natural atmosphere.

Exterior and Facade Design

Harmonizing with Surroundings

• The facade facing the courtyard features three horizontal “scrolls,” resembling a painting.
• Daytime: The facade reflects the external surroundings.
• Nighttime: The interior lighting adds depth and mood to the facade, making it a beacon of modern design.

A Modern Landmark in Shanghai

The YEARLY PLAN Shanghai Gallery is a true reflection of Dongqi Design’s commitment to blending heritage with innovation. Its meticulous attention to detail in structural design, materiality, and environmental integration makes it a landmark project in Shanghai's evolving architectural landscape.

All Photographs are work of Yasu Kojima