In an era marked by rapid urban development and the pursuit of modernity, it is crucial to remember the invaluable treasures of our past. Historic architecture stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and remarkable craftsmanship of our ancestors. It tells stories of bygone eras and embodies the soul of a community.

In Shanghai, many historical gems are being preserved under the city’s commitment to celebrating the “stories of Shanghai’s architecture,” or “建筑可阅读,” and CENTRIA International was recently privileged to be part of the significant renovation of the buildings at #8 Xiepu Road.

Once the bustling Asia Kerosene Oil Depot and later a series of commercial warehouses, the iconic buildings, with their rich industrial heritage and distinctive red brick façade, had become a relic of the past. However, a group of visionary architects, historians, preservationists, and investors recognized the buildings’ immense historical value and embarked on a remarkable journey of renovation and refurbishment.

The team had several goals for the project, including carefully restoring the integrity of the buildings’ appearance, augmenting the structures with appropriate, modern features to support the future use of the facilities, and ensuring the protection and durability of the buildings long-term.

One of the most critical aspects of the renovation was the integration of a protective metal roof, carefully designed to blend perfectly with the exterior façade. Well aware of the top performance and aesthetics of CENTRIA International’s roof systems, the design team selected CENTRIA International’s aluminum alloy SRS-25 Standing Seam Roof System for its tremendous durability as well as its clean lines which complemented the buildings’ design. Additionally, to infuse the building with abundant natural light, the design team added a number of skylights, which were ideally supported by the SRS-25’s professional joint system.

Then, the project commenced! Skilled artisans and craftsmen meticulously restored the buildings over a period of several months. When the project was complete, the entire team marveled at how the buildings – with the bold combination of traditional red brick and complementary metal roof – now stand as a testament to the power of revitalization, showcasing the harmonious blending of the old and the new.

Today, the refurbished buildings at Xiepu Road are a shining example of adaptive reuse and architectural excellence. Situated in a lush, green area near a path alongside the Huangpu River, cyclists and pedestrians can admire the buildings as they pass by, and the buildings themselves will now serve as a vibrant hub for creativity, culture, and commerce, attracting visitors from far and wide.