As part of a larger redevelopment with Jinmao Group that includes new offices and residential towers, the five-story mall sensitively connects the original 1937 structure with a new building and expansive civic functions. The project sets a new standard for adaptive reuse with an integrated approach from branding to architecture and interior design. 

A concept of “Transformation” where in the past, the building was used as power plant to generate electricity and now it is transformed into a center of retail, lifestyle, culture but keeping the unique industrial heritage. 

Based on Tianjin Historical Protection Bureau, the old building façade facing Hai River needed to remain untouched to keep its historical character. At the same time, the new commercial building also needed a strong entrance to mark its public entrance. The solution was to add a modern glass box as a connection massing between the old and new, allowing nature light flood in to reduce the environmental impact while bringing refining contrasting rough industrial brickwork of the old building.

The brick walls and the iconic silos are maintained as interior and exterior key features, as well as the frame, the windows, and the space boxes. A special brickwork element at the north part topped by old power plant logo now turns into a social media-worthy café.  

“We are proud to have been a part of the Tianjin Jinmao Plaza project, which showcases Woods Bagot’s commitment to urban regeneration and creating innovative, sustainable design solutions that preserve the heritage,” said Hang Xu, Woods Bagot Associate Principal and Shanghai Studio Urban Regeneration Director. “Our design celebrated the context of the old and new, creating a dynamic and modern lifestyle destination for the city.”