Nikken Sekkei Unveils Jing’An Investment Center, Blending Modernity with Shanghai’s Historic ‘Lilong’ Culture

Nikken Sekkei has revealed plans for the Jing’An Investment Center (JIC), a significant urban regeneration project situated in Shanghai’s bustling Jing’An District. The development seeks to create a harmonious dialogue between contemporary architectural ambition and the preservation of Shanghai’s rich historical context, particularly its traditional ‘Lilong’ housing.

Urban Integration and Historical Context

The JIC project is strategically located next to the prominent Nanjing West Road commercial area, an district where traditional streetscapes and modern business hubs coexist. The design incorporates a 180-meter-tall super-high-rise tower, a striking contemporary element, alongside preserved and revitalized historic buildings at the lower levels. This approach aims to transcend the often-cited dichotomy between preservation and new development, presenting a model for integrated urban renewal.

The concept of ‘three-dimensional Lilong’ is central to the project’s design philosophy. Historically, Shanghai’s ‘Lilong’ were dense clusters of traditional communal housing, with alleyways serving as vital social and living spaces. Nikken Sekkei’s interpretation extends this concept vertically, aiming to infuse the vibrancy and richness of these traditional communal spaces into a modern, multi-functional complex.

A ‘Three-Dimensional Lilong’ Approach

The design features a three-dimensional circulation route that elegantly connects the preserved low-rise structures with elevated sky gardens and lounges located within the lower and middle sections of the super-high-rise tower. This interconnected network is intended to draw the energy and activity of the city upwards, extending the urban buzz to higher floors.

By seamlessly integrating open spaces that foster diverse user interactions, the Jing’An Investment Center proposes a new paradigm for urban regeneration. It envisions a next-generation landmark that not only serves contemporary needs but also acts as a conduit for passing down the city’s memories and cultural heritage to future generations.

Mixed-Use Functionality

The JIC Jing’An Center is designed as a mixed-use development, encompassing offices, retail spaces, and residential units. This variety of functions aims to create a dynamic and self-sustaining environment within the heart of Shanghai. The integration of historic buildings ensures that the project retains a connection to the area’s past, while the super-high-rise offers modern amenities and a prominent new landmark.

Nikken Sekkei’s vision for the Jing’An Investment Center represents a thoughtful approach to urban development, one that acknowledges the importance of heritage while embracing the future. The project aims to set a precedent for how cities can evolve by weaving together the old and the new, creating spaces that are both culturally resonant and economically vital.

Key facts
| Feature | Detail |
| :————————————- | :———————————————————————— |
| Project Name | Jing’An Investment Center (JIC) |
| Location | Jing’An District, Shanghai, China |
| Architect | Nikken Sekkei |
| Height of Super-High-Rise Tower | 180 meters |
| Key Design Concept | ‘Three-dimensional Lilong’, integrating historic buildings with modern functions |
| Included Functions | Offices, Retail, Residential |
| Publication Date | June 12, 2026 |

The Jing’An Investment Center’s focus on a ‘three-dimensional Lilong’ concept offers a compelling case study for urban planners and architects grappling with the challenges of preserving cultural identity in rapidly developing metropolises. The project’s success will lie in its ability to truly blend these disparate elements into a cohesive and vibrant urban experience.

Source: Jing’An Investment Center / Nikken Sekkei, ArchDaily, https://www.archdaily.com/1042339/jingan-investment-center-nikken-sekkei

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