Soul-searching down Jing’an
Some places have soul. And that’s what Mercedes Yao was looking for when acquiring a property in the city. After renting out her beautiful lane house in Jing’an District to a diplomat, she moved into another lane house she bought in 2008 on Changle Road. As soon as you enter her home, there’s a tangible warmth and energy. It is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate before stepping outside into the irresistible Shanghai atmosphere.
Tucked inside a city lane, the four-level house oozes genuine old Shanghai aesthetics, both inside and out.
Originally built in the 1930s, Yao has meticulously transformed the property into a comfortable home and retained its historic character and charm. Reference and connection to 1930s Shanghai culture comes mostly through the materials and colors used.
“This house was true love at first sight to me. I saw it on the Internet for sale, the big black iron windows and the 4.5-meter-high ceiling immediately drew my attention. I made an offer on my first visit,” she said.
“Compared to most of the old houses I’ve seen, the condition of this house was fairly decent, except for the dampness of the walls which is so common to Shanghai lane houses. I liked its central location, layout, especially the high ceiling.”
Yao prefers old houses because she grew up in one of the lanes and there are so many beautiful childhood memories linked with these lanes and the stunning traditional architecture, colors, street life, sounds and smell.
Yao was attracted to the history of the building in which she could sense the passing of time in the structure, space and details so she didn’t make any change to the layout. In terms of the interior, she wanted an easy living space without fuss.
“Unlike my other homes, I keep this one simply modern with a Shanghai twist,” she said. “My interior style varies because I like to create a style that complements the natural, original character of the place.”
Step into each room of this house and you will discover a delightful ambience, seeing how the past has been preserved according to its original beauty.
And you will definitely be tempted by the romance of living in an old Shanghai-style house with a modern lifestyle. A free-flowing space was created, giving a sense of coherence with mostly cream walls and rich, old wood floors throughout.
“I have an overall idea of what I wanted in this home, then I go out to look for the right pieces in antique and modern furniture stores. I didn’t expect to have everything ready at the same time so if I see something I like I will buy it,” Yao said.
Some antique Art Deco furniture pieces are sprinkled throughout different rooms so each one takes on a slightly different character. The beautiful antique furniture along with modern comfort pieces offers a personal sanctuary of comfort,