Hidden in the heart of Shanghai’s Hongkou District, 1933 Old Millfun has transformed from a 1933 slaughterhouse into a labyrinthine art sanctuary. Fused with Art Deco and Bauhaus design, its industrial skeleton of spiral ramps and concrete corridors once guided cattle and muted their panic. Today, that same geometry draws photographers, designers, and curious explorers.
This daring adaptive reuse project reflects a broader trend on the Chinese mainland to preserve heritage through imagination. Instead of erasing the past, architects repurposed the former abattoir’s skybridges and steel beams into gallery spaces, cafés, and coworking nooks. Data from Shanghai’s urban planning bureau shows that repurposed historical sites have increased by 35 percent over the past decade, signaling a city-wide shift towards sustainable preservation.
Whether you’re a culture vulture, architecture buff, or digital nomad, 1933 Old Millfun offers a sensory dive into Shanghai’s layered story. Wander the five floors via the original ramps, catch pop-up exhibitions in hidden courtyards, or sip a latte overlooking the industrial skyline.
Pro tip: Go on a weekday afternoon to snap light-drenched photos without the weekend crowds. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of the city’s blend of old and new.
1933 Old Millfun stands as proof that Shanghai can reinvent its past, shaping a dynamic future. Ready to explore?
Reference(s):
1933 Old Millfun: From abattoir to art hub in the heart of Shanghai
cgtn.com
