Tianjin is a second tier city and one of four municipalities directly under the Central Government of China. Not only is it an international harbor and economic centre in the north of China but it is also well known for its profound historical and cultural heritage.

This project is one of the many bilateral projects between China and Singapore with private-sector investment and development. Commissioned by a group of Singapore entrepreneurs, the proposal involves adaptive reuse of three historical buildings consist of the Old City Hall, British Concession and Chinese Courtyard House which are significantly located within the Central Business District of Tai Ann.

The existing facades of these three iconic buildings will be delicately restored to enhance the authenticity of the building’s historic past while the interior spaces are to be adapted and reinvented for high-end retail shops, restaurants and lifestyle facilities.

The “new” building will retain the charm and memories of its yester-years, but at the same time celebrate the modernity of its function. The details of the interior spaces, compliment its historic past and richness in Chinese culture. Indeed the design has successfully create a tangible link between the heritage of the building and contemporary demands of its new function.