Shanghai Xintian Omall Retail Revamp

Nestled in the core of Pujiang New Town, Shanghai's Pudong District, this project transformed a traditional mall only known by the warehouse-style supermarket into a vibrant community hub. Confronting challenges of brand aging and lack of consumer experiences, AaaM Architects conducted in-depth research into urban dynamics and consumption habits to reposition the mall as a "green lifestyle destination." By redefining its identity and adopting a holistic sustainable strategy—spanning design, construction, leasing, and operations—the project not only meets the aspirations of the middle-class community but also sets a new benchmark for future commercial development.

To overcome the constraints of the original five-story enclosed structure, the design centered on creating an "indoor green park" at the fourth-floor double-height atrium plaza. A giant elliptical glass canopy floods the space with natural light, enhancing visual connectivity across floors. The innovative solution of a mobile modular landscape system allows seamless transitions between three modes: "Park Mode" for leisure and socialization, "Show Mode" for events and exhibitions, and "Open Mode" for emergencies and special occasions. This adaptability reinforces the mall’s dynamic, eco-friendly identity while ensuring responsiveness to evolving market needs.

As a renovation initiative, the team meticulously analyzed site conditions and collaborated with leasing team to redesign circulation paths. The "Central Street" scheme simplifies pedestrian flow, reduces store depth, and improves leasing efficiency. Key visual focal points—such as double-height entrances, elevator lobbies, and escalator ceilings—were strategically designed to enhance spatial quality and consumer engagement. A phased renovation approach minimized disruption to existing tenants, ensuring business continuity while aligning with the mall’s sustainable and community-centric vision.

The first phase of renovations focused on the first and fifth floors, introducing a "Green x Healthy × Night Market" concept that the food street links the high-end dining anchor with casual food halls at the two ends. An open "DaiPaiDong" food stalls layout with standing counters and interactive spaces encourages social engagement and enhances stalls' visibilty. Two skylit courtyards, surrounded by food stalls and shaded by trees, serve as communal gathering spaces. A timber ceiling system and green finishes create a natural, healthy dining environment, embodying the mall’s commitment to green consumption while offering a unique offline-online experience for the community.

This revitalized mall successfully merges sustainability with commercial innovation, creating a vibrant destination that resonates with modern consumers. By integrating green principles, adaptable design, and community-focused experiences, the project not only elevates its brand appeal but also demonstrates how commercial spaces can drive environmental and social value, paving the way for future industry transformations.