The Ark – Shanghai’s Floating Former Cement Factory

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• The Ark – Shanghai’s Floating Former Cement Factory

14 November 2023

MAD Architects has released images of its proposed renovations to what was once one of the three largest cement factories in Shanghai.

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The Shanghai Zhangjiang Cement Factory was built in 1971, growing with Shanghai’s urban construction sector until its closure in 2013. The "Wanmicang" warehouse on the southside of the site was once the first stop for ships to send raw materials to the cement factory for processing, and it is also the largest existing building in the cement factory.

Picture: a photograph showing the existing "Wanmicang" warehouse. Image Credit: MAD Architects

The warehouse is to be reimagined as a multifunctional public waterfront space where the old and the new will co-exist.

The renders released by MAD Architects demonstrate how the original industrial architectural look of the warehouse is preserved, with the façade of the original industrial building repaired and reinforced and forming a central part of the design.

Picture: a render showing the proposed "ark" roof, with the original building's industrial façade shown. Image Credit: MAD Architects

Alongside this, there is an “ark-like metal floating volume.” A metal ladder leads up to the roof, providing views of the Chuanyang River in the distance. 

Picture: a render showing the interior of the "arc" with steps up to the roof and communal seating areas. Image Credit: MAD Architects

The renovation is expected to be completed by 2026.

Picture: a render showing the exterior of the "arc", showing the rooftop garden. Image Credit: MAD Architects

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 14 November 2023

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