1933 Shanghai

Overview

1933 Shanghai is a former municipal slaughterhouse transformed into a creative lifestyle destination. Designed by British architects and completed in 1933, its Brutalist concrete structure features an extraordinary interlocking system of ramps, bridges, and air wells.

Highlights

• Architecture: The building's labyrinthine layout of helical ramps and octagonal air wells is architecturally unique — designed to efficiently move cattle but now an Instagram favorite.
• Fashion Events: The dramatic spaces regularly host fashion shows, pop-up exhibitions, and design fairs.
• Boutiques and Studios: Independent designers and creative studios occupy the upper floors.

History

Designed by the British firm Balfours and completed in 1933, the building used reinforced concrete techniques advanced for its era. It processed up to 1,000 cattle daily until the 1970s and was declared a heritage site in 2005.

Visitor Tips

• Free Entry: The building itself is free to explore.
• Photography: The geometric concrete forms look best in morning or late-afternoon light.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.