益丰·外滩源

Can a building hold the echoes of a city’s past? 益丰·外滩源, located on Beijing East Road, certainly does. This magnificent five-story structure, originally known as the 益丰大楼 or “Yifeng Building,” stands as a testament to Shanghai’s rich history. 益丰·外滩源 whispers tales of fortunes made and lost, of cultural exchange and resilience. The building itself dates back to 1911, designed by the British firm Stewardson & Spence. Robert Ernest Stewardson, a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects, left his mark on Shanghai’s skyline with this and other notable buildings like the iconic HSBC Building on the Bund. The red brick facade of 益丰·外滩源, accented with white stone trim, stands out even today. It’s a striking example of the Baroque style, a visual reminder of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past. But the story of 益丰·外滩源 goes beyond its architecture. It’s intertwined with the story of D.E.J. Abraham, a prominent Jewish businessman who arrived in Shanghai from India in the late 19th century. He established the successful trading company, Abraham D. E. J., known in Chinese as 益丰洋行. While the exact connection between Abraham’s firm and the building remains unclear, historical records suggest a strong link. The building was likely managed by his firm and housed its offices, hence its name, “Yifeng Building.” Abraham himself was deeply involved in the Shanghai Jewish community. He played a key role in establishing the Shanghai Jewish School and was a prominent member of The Society for the Rescue of the Chinese Jews. This organization worked to preserve the heritage of Chinese Jews, highlighting the diverse cultural tapestry that shaped Shanghai. The ground floor of 益丰·外滩源 boasts one of the longest continuous verandas in Shanghai. A necessary feature in the early 20th century, the veranda and raised stone base protected the building from the frequent flooding of the Huangpu River. During renovations in 2008, the building was carefully restored. Today, 益丰·外滩源 thrives as a high-end shopping destination, its boutiques and restaurants breathing new life into its historic walls. Yet, the whispers of its past, of opium traders and resilient communities, still linger within its halls.