David Chipperfield’s 18-Year Journey in China, From $1 Billion Shanghai Restoration Project and Social Media Fame to Ethical Contemplations in Architecture

Rockbund's Restoration

In the bustling streets of Shanghai, a $1 billion mixed-use development known as Rockbund has become a daily pilgrimage for the city's influencers. British architect, David Chipperfield's project, involves the meticulous restoration of a dozen 1930s buildings, blending classical facades with modern functionality. The surreal swarm of influencers showcases the allure of architectural heritage, a rarity in a city often marked by demolitions and Disneyfied recreations.

Chipperfield's unconventional approach has resonated with Shanghai's Gen Z, creating a unique space where historical preservation meets modern aesthetics. The restoration of Yuanmingyuan Road, once slated for demolition, is now a testament to the architect's commitment to retaining the city's historic fabric.

Slow and Arduous Process

The restoration of Rockbund has been an 18-year endeavor, facing challenges and triumphs. Only four of the buildings initially had protected status, but Chipperfield's team successfully convinced authorities to preserve 11, showcasing the scars of time. The slow and arduous process involved meticulous cleaning, repairs, and restoration of interior details, contributing to the project's authenticity.

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Libin Chen, the director of Chipperfield's Shanghai office, emphasizes the importance of retaining historical patina and aptly states, "If you send an old man to hospital, you don't want a young man to come out." The surgical restoration also extended to the spaces between buildings, transforming backland alleyways into public spaces and attracting locals and influencers alike.

Divide in Architectural Vision

While Rockbund's success is evident, not everyone is impressed. A local architect criticizes the project as a preservation effort, deeming it a demolition project. The divide in architectural vision becomes more apparent as half of the city block facing the street is replaced with modern structures designed by another firm. Chipperfield acknowledges the challenge, stating, "These buildings were out of our control."

Chipperfield's Dilemmas

The lack of control extends beyond Rockbund to Chipperfield's other high-profile projects in Shanghai. The West Bund Museum, completed in 2019, reflects a design filtered through a developer's lens, lacking the refined detail expected from a Pritzker Prize winner. The redevelopment of the historic Zhangyuan area raises ethical concerns as Chipperfield grapples with transforming a historic lilong into a high-end shopping destination.

The architect's office has become the go-to firm for international projects, often government-connected. Chipperfield expresses dissatisfaction with the lack of control in specific projects, including the West Bund Museum. His discomfort with the results prompts a critical reflection on the challenges of working in a rapidly evolving and government-centric environment.

China's Human Rights Record and Diplomacy

Chipperfield addresses the ethical dilemmas associated with his work in China, notably the design of a new home for the Chinese embassy in east London. Despite concerns about the country's human rights record, Chipperfield emphasizes that he supported diplomacy rather than a regime. The ethical discussions within his Berlin office and the ongoing debate about project selection highlight the complexities faced by architects operating on a global stage.

Amidst the challenges and dilemmas, Chipperfield remains optimistic about China's shifting attitudes towards built heritage and sustainability. The economic slowdown has made the retention and reuse of existing buildings more appealing, and Chipperfield sees potential in China's ability to enforce blanket policies for societal change. As he continues his architectural odyssey in China, navigating the cultural and ethical landscape, Chipperfield remains committed to taking risks and contributing to the country's ever-evolving narrative of architectural design.

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