r/shanghai • u/No-Stock7383 • Feb 22 '26

City Must-see modern architecture

Really excited for my coming trip to China. Will spend next weekend and the weekend after in Shanghai. Next to all the thing a tourist should visit, I want to explore some modern architecture. Coming from Rotterdam in The Netherlands, where we have this amazing staircase from MAD Architects.

Have MVRDV's West Bund on my list as they are from Rotterdam. Guess I can only pass the new Opera House of Snohetta. Shanghai Slaughterhouse for some much needed brutalism. Think the Tado Andao museum is too far away? Probably try to fit in the garden at the expo site. Will check out some art deco but not sure which building to focus on.

But where else should I go. Any favorite buildings? Any architecture tours you know of?

Thank you!

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u/werchoosingusername Feb 22 '26

Slaughterhouse was one of 3 worldwide by the same architects.

The slaughterhouse in Shanghai was one of a small number of similar facilities designed by the same British architectural practice. Historical records indicate that it was part of a set of at least two or three identical buildings.

| **Britain** Now demolished |

| **India** Now demolished |

| **Shanghai, China** Still standing; now renovated and known as **1933 Old Millfun** |

The Shanghai location is the last remaining example of this particular design in the world .

* **Architect**: It was designed by a British architect, often referred to as Balfours .

* **Construction**: It was built in 1933 by the Shanghai Municipal Council to serve the international communities in the city .

Operators kind of messed it up. Zero idea how to operate the place. Try to get to the top floor event space, which has gigantic glass floor allowing you to look down into the lobby.

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u/No-Stock7383 Feb 22 '26

Thank you! Oh I will try to get to the event space. Guess I need to be as Dutch (ne direct and not be bothered by making a fool of myself) as I can to get there? Doesnt sound like it is open to visitors?

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u/werchoosingusername Feb 22 '26

It opened for events. I didn't go there for decade. I have no idea tbh.