pink reaction tanks hover above x+living's commercial center in shanghai

X+LIVING unveils Powerlong Ideas Lab in shanghai

Chinese architecture firm X+Living presents its Industrial Revolution-inspired design for the Powerlong Ideas Lab, a multifunctional commercial center in Shanghai. The renovation project presents itself as a fusion of minimalist and industrial aesthetics: all-white walls are adorned with floating reaction tanks, pink power lines, and expansive walking platforms. The clean and cool concrete completes the unique interior designed to express the great influence and importance of the Information Age.

floating reaction tanks, pink power lines, and expansive walking platforms adorn the interior

all images courtesy of X+Living

pink power tanks & energy delivery pipes adorn the interior

X+Living’s design for the Powerlong Ideas Lab references the factories of the Steam Age, forming compositions of industrial elements that are important to both the visual and functional aspects of the project. The Chinese architects demolished the floor slabs of the original two-story building and transformed it into a single space about nine meters high. The firm then restored the floor area with a minimalist approach and designed a selection of reaction tank rooms, where customers can enjoy a unique shopping experience. In addition to the tanks, the utility lines previously exposed in the space are perfectly concealed in the replica ‘energy delivery pipes’. In parts of the space, the pipes are integrated into a first-floor environment that includes a series of tubular tables and chairs that mimic the shape of the pipes, layering the overall space to create a different composition.

Elevated platforms are installed in the space to serve as work areas for staff, who are in full visual contact with the customers below. The interactions in the elevated space evoke a sense of coexistence that makes the space more interesting. All in all, the Powerlong Ideas Lab is designed as a space where both consumers and employees can enjoy the same environment in an artistic way.

the replica ‘energy delivery pipes’ conceal wires and other utility lines that were previously exposed

tubular tables and chairs that mimic the shape of the pipes

elevated platforms are installed in the space to serve as work areas for staff

a pink spiral staircase leads employees to their workspace on the second floor

the architects designed a selection of reaction tank rooms where customers can enjoy a unique shopping experience

the renovation project presents itself as a fusion of minimalist and industrial aesthetics

underneath view of the elevated platforms

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project info: 

name: Powerlong Ideas Lab
architects: X+Living
lead architect: Li Xiang

location: Shanghai, China
project area: 1,100 sqm