Retail schemes are increasingly being asked to do more than accommodate stores. In Shanghai’s Hongqiao district, a newly completed commercial complex brings together retail, dining, leisure, and public spaces within a single destination along Suzhou Creek.
Hongqiao Qianwan Incity MEGA covers approximately 256,000m2 within the Hongqiao International Central Business District. The scheme was designed by Lead8, the Hong Kong-based architecture, interior design, masterplanning, and urban design practice, for developer SCPG.
More than 300 brands occupy the complex across retail, food and beverage, entertainment, and lifestyle categories. Alongside commercial space, the scheme incorporates terraces, landscaped areas, pet-friendly zones, and outdoor gathering spaces.
A new addition to Hongqiao’s commercial growth
The complex forms part of a wider 400,000m2 development that also includes Costco China’s flagship store and the Hongqiao International Business Center.
Located near residential communities, schools, and major transport connections, the project adds another large-scale commercial asset to the rapidly developing Hongqiao area, which has emerged as one of Shanghai’s key business districts.
Lead8’s design combines indoor and outdoor environments, creating a mix of commercial and public uses across the site.
Design shaped by Suzhou Creek and the Jiangnan landscape
Lead8 drew inspiration from the waterways and landscapes of the Jiangnan region, with curved forms and flowing lines used throughout the architecture and interior spaces.
Natural planting and landscaped areas feature prominently across the complex. The design team’s intention was to create stronger links between retail space and the surrounding environment while providing areas for recreation and social activity.
According to Simon Chua, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Lead8, the scheme sought to challenge conventional retail formats by strengthening the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.
A sustainable mixed-use retail scheme
The complex has achieved LEED Gold certification. Environmental measures include green roofs, biodiversity-focused landscaping, and energy-efficient building systems. The site’s proximity to public transport was also considered as part of the sustainability strategy.
Lead8 provided architecture and retail interior design services for the project. Landscape architecture practice Hassell provided the landscape design, Tungsten Studio designed the lighting, and Inhabit was the façade consultant.
Images: Courtesy of Lead8
