1933 Old Millfun — Attraction in Shanghai

This historical Brutalist relic is undeniably striking - architecturally unique, visually magnetic, and worth preserving. Yet preservation alone is not enough. For it to thrive as a true conservancy, programming and activation must take center stage. When we visited, the complex felt hollowed out - deserted but for a single eatery serving lunch and a small shop peddling religious artifacts. Most storefronts were shuttered, and while a few offices and studios still hummed quietly behind closed doors, the overall atmosphere was stagnant - arguably the most lifeless cultural site we encountered in Shanghai. A handful of design enthusiasts were seen wandering about snapping photos, but their presence only underscored the emptiness. We were told it was once quite vibrant and happening; today, it feels like a ghost of its former self -...

This building was ahead of it's time when it was built, still impresses to this day. I would recommend going there during the week, because weekends are full of citizens from selfie nation and it's hard to get a nice photo without a lot of people on the background. That said, great place if you're interested in photography or architecture (or both). You will also find some cafes, small shops and office spaces. Recommended for people who are in Shanghai for a short time or if you live here and want to explore the city a...

Originally designed as a slaughterhouse in 1933(!!!), we were excited to visit the Brutalism / Bauhaus-like masterpiece.

The interplay of light and concrete textures is downright poetic. Beautiful concrete curves and spiralling staircases feel like something out of a sci-fi movie - futuristic and nostalgic.

It’s gritty, it’s glamorous, and it’s history well preserved. If you’re an architecture buff, a history geek, or just someone who loves beautiful space, highly...