Xiyun Tower complex takes shape
Print Edition
HEADING east along Hongde Road in Jiading New Town, you will see Xiyun Tower next to the intersection with Yumin Road S.
A cluster of traditional Shanghai architecture featuring stone gate building, narrow lane, flagstone path and dooryard rises in front of visitors.
A creek passes beneath the complex to form the view of a water town of the lower reaches of Yangtze River together with the boats and the bridges.
Work on Xiyun Tower is expected to be completed this month.
“A river of spring water rolling toward the east will be part of the views of Xiyun Tower as we build a dam to control the water and let it flow east,” said project leader Lu Puling.
The water view is a highlight of the project, according to Lu. An artificial river links the Yuanxiang Lake and runs through the entire complex. A lift pump keeps the water three meters deep while five bridges cross over the river.
After the shopping complex opens to the public a river transport shuttle service will be available for visitors. Specially designed boats will carry them to enjoy the views along the banks.
“Here will be another Bund since we have 26 buildings featuring major European architectural styles from the 1930s to 1940s,” Lu said.
‘Another Bund’
Each building here is a combination of Chinese and Western elements. The Chinese beam structure is in harmony with Western posts; Chinese furniture gets along with Western glazed tiles.
The Xiyun Tower project team also invited engineers who designed the illumination system on the Bund to create lighting and visual effects.
“Xiyun Tower may replace the Bund to be the iconic destination for light shows in the near future,” Lu said.
Apart from the colorful lights, Lu’s company also moved a number of historic buildings from downtown Shanghai to the Xiyun Tower complex and reassembled them at their new home.
One of the old houses previously belonged to mob boss Du Yuesheng (1888-1951). Lu’s company acquired the house and several others when they were waiting to be demolished in 2000 to create green space along Yan’an Road M.
Du’s House now stands at Xiyun Tower complex with everything in it the same as before. The rooftop beam was gifted by Huang Jinrong, Du’s older brother while the staircase and shiny handrail witnessed Du’s encounter with the most famous Peking artist Mei Lanfang during the completion ceremony of the house.
“After it opens to the public we’ll serve visitors with interpreters to tell people what happened here,” Lu said.
A test run is expected next May and the grand opening will be held after that.
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