After extensive research and study, Kokaistudios in cooperation with the developer Portman Holdings and master architect John Portman & Associates developed an architectural renovation and restoration strategy that maintained the architectural integrity of the heritage “shikumen” lane houses while tastefully altering the internal layout to allow them to transform them from their original functions as houses into individual guest suites. The extensive restoration project covering both the interiors and the facades of the buildings together with the internal courtyards.
The project presented many challenges but armed with a solid experience gained both in Europe and in China of undertaking complex adaptive re-use project and working with an operating philosophy of driving for innovation through re-use and renovation we strove to overcome them and show the city and a wider audience in both China and the region the value of the existing built-heritage of Asian cities embodied by this unique 'shikumen lilong" complex while at the same time creating an timeless hospitality experience since the owner of the project brought in the Capella hotel brand to open their first hotel in China.
Today the hotel occupies a unique position within Shanghai’s luxury hotel landscape and offer their guests a truly unique hospitality experience not available anywhere else in the world.
