PIG design shapes mysterious nightclub experience in the heart of shanghai

 a surreal world within nightclub GRNDCNTRL

located in xintiandi, a cultural landmark in the heart of shanghai, china, the nightclub GRNDCNTRL is co-created by PIG design and other designers at home and abroad. the entrance reveals an avant-garde, experimental ambiance, inviting visitors to a surreal world. spanning 1,700 sqm, the overall design blends the functions of modern yet retro party space, trend-setting interactive socializing destination, and immersive, artistic music scene. its elaborate design in combination with an advanced sound system, and lighting effects enable a mysterious nightclub atmosphere. all images courtesy of SFAP

a metaphorical ‘theater’ concept

distinct from most nightclubs in shanghai that are dominated by the homogeneous ‘underground’ style, GRNDCNTRL by PIG design is positioned as a ‘shanghai nightlife cultural center’. with the metaphorical ‘theater’ concept, inspired by the greek theaters —that were mostly built on hillsides— the design lifts the hip-pop nightclub to a higher level. the spatial narratives and functional layout are centered around the lift-style DJ stage, which provides an unexpected experience and a panoramic view of all details in the space.

 visual contrast and various shades of black

stone materials, mirror-like finishes, paints, stainless steel, and leather are combined together, generating a distinct visual contrast. the dominant black tone has various shades, while the organic curves with simple yet abstract forms break horizontal and vertical compositions and redefine classic aesthetics. an exquisite cultural performance theater is turned into a socializing venue, available to the masses through artistic design and commercial strategies, without losing its value. every corner of GRNDCNTRL is filled with the chances of seeing or being seen, encouraging people to dress up themselves more than casually.

personalized, vivid spatial composition

the big hall features the hip-pop music style with a strong sense of artistry and technology, hence bringing an avant-garde, futuristic spatial experience. in contrast, the small hall is dominated by the house and techno music style, full of immersive lighting and shadows, which produces a film-like, retro atmosphere. both mirrored spatial scenes take into account the needs of different consumer groups. strong hues, simple design, and new materials create a visual feast that is out of perspective.

the bar counter is set back to give way to the ‘stage’, with a view to highlighting people and music. the washrooms show retro aesthetics that are distinct from the trend, serving as the ‘back stage’ for people to have a rest.

the nightclub acts as a cultural carrier as ancient theaters, accommodating spirits and emotions and shaping people’s characters. based on the background of the times and the city, GRNDCNTRL creates a black-toned, dramatic ‘improvisational scene’ to take modern people on an enjoyable, thrilling journey.

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project info:

name: GRNDCNTRL

design firm: PIG design
location: xintiandi, shanghai, china
area: 1,700 sqm
chief designer: li wenqiang
design team: zhu yiyun, yan junjun, yang zhiwei, liu chao, qian mengmeng, xiong jun, gao ya, he di, tan shijie, wu yicheng, xiao fei, shao xindi, zhao lili, shen taotao, fan kaiqi, xiao mengmeng, cheng liang
setting design: unreal production
lighting design: yaank
furniture design: PIG design

clients: cody, victor
photography: SFAP

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina petridou | designboom