MDO renews a canal-side Qing dynasty post office in the historic town of Zhujiajiao

Zhujiajiao, a city on the outskirts of Shanghai, is known as a water town, for the large number of waterways that meander through it. Established about 1700 years ago, tourists today are drawn to its ancient structures that line the riverbanks and picturesque waterways. But Shanghai's rapid development in recent years has too often resulted in the demolition of historic urban areas, leaving cultural heritage overshadowed by commercial interests.

Considering this, the local Qingpu government was keen to retain a canal-side Qing Dynasty Post Office in Zhujiajiao, wishing to showcase the post office's history to both the existing community and the growing number of tourists. The adaptive reuse project was commissioned to More Design Office (MDO), an award-winning architecture and interior design practice based in Shanghai, China. In recognition of the vibrant community's active heritage, the Chinese architecture firm aimed to transform the post office into a dynamic, iconic space that would continue to serve as a hub for the exchange of ideas as it had in the past.

MDO, headed by Jaycee Chui and Justin Bridgland, approached the problem from the perspective of information sharing, the primary function of a post office, and how they could channel that idea into something not only relevant but future-ready. It was always their intention to preserve the building's original features as far as possible and integrate new elements only where necessary. The former post office has now been converted into a waterfront café, a versatile hall for community events, and a multifunctional gallery. 

MDO has combined sensitive renovation techniques with modern upgrades to create a space that celebrates tradition and brings the history of the postal service to life for a new generation. Permanent exhibits punctuate the structure, featuring the post office's rich history, thoughtfully presented through physical and digital media.

The existing building, of exemplary Qing Dynasty architecture, underwent meticulous restoration by removing previous modern additions and restoring it to its original form of brickwork, timber structure, and tile. To distinguish new elements from the old, carefully curated objects were inserted into this historical context, allowing visitors to appreciate the contrast and evolution of the space. As homage to the building's original architecture and its time-worn story, the intricate roof, the timeworn bronze letterbox, and the distinctive clay brick wall have been retained. At the core of the "sensitive renovation" approach is the judicious use of resources, both existing and new. The firm has maximised the reuse of the original structure, utilising walls, flooring, windows, doors, and roof materials. The existing veranda has also been left intact. Recycled materials played a crucial role in the project, including locally made terrazzo for the stair and ground floor finish, and a lino flooring made from natural rapidly renewable materials. Existing exposed walls and roof tiles were carefully cleaned and repaired, preserving their authentic character.

The staircase and interior cabinetry, in smooth minimal colour were finished in a palette inspired by an indigenous fabric ‘Qingpu blue’ and the distinctive ‘green water’ of the water transport post office, paying tribute to the building’s heritage and standing in local culture.

The firm adds, “Our design incorporates modern elements that pay homage to history, such as the shelves supported by black 'feet,' reminiscent of the postmen who traversed towns with vital information. This harmonious blend of old and new fosters a meaningful dialogue between the past and the present, reminding us of Daniel Johnston's poetic words: ‘The world is an old canvas, painted over many times.’

MDO’s perspective of the societal impact of the project included their concern for energy efficiency. It was a priority in their overall design scheme, with energy-efficient lighting employed throughout the building. The riverside façade, which also serves as a solar control screen, is designed to provide cross ventilation, cooling the interior spaces naturally. Although air conditioning is necessary in Shanghai, its use is limited due to the thermal mass of the existing structure combined with the building's natural ventilation and solar control methods. The value addition of this space to the surrounding community is as important as, if not more significant than the architectural achievements of the resulting space. The gallery, museum, lecture space, and café, provide immeasurable local resources and emphasise community engagement by employing knowledgeable residents who share the post office's history with visitors, fostering a sense of pride and connection.

The renewal of the Qing Dynasty Post Office, architecturally and culturally, stands as a testament to the role of architecture in providing and sustaining meaningful community living in a modern city context. It is a masterclass in the preservation and transformation of historical architecture. By striking the right balance between honoring the past and embracing modernity, MDO’s thoughtful intervention has drawn the community into the space and partnered with them to ensure that their rich history lives on.

Project Details

Name: Qing Dynasty Post Office Renovation
Location: Shanghai, China
Area: 188 sqm
Design Team: More Design Office (MDO)
Design Directors: Justin Bridgland, Jaycee Chui
Completion Date: January 2023
Space Photography: Pianfang Studio