南昌大楼

Nearing the corner of Nanchang Road and Maoming South Road, gaze upon Nanchang Mansion. This striking eight-story apartment building, also known as Astrid Apartments or Huanlong Apartment, has witnessed Shanghai’s transformation since 1933. Nanchang Mansion stands as a testament to the city’s architectural evolution. Its Art Deco style, with geometric shapes and decorative motifs, reflects a unique blend of East and West. Originally built by the Yong’an Real Estate Company and designed by the foreign architect Li Wen, it catered to affluent residents. Nanchang Mansion differed from other apartments of its time with a strict separation between the main building and its four-story annex for servants, earning it the nickname “strict class division”. In 1994, its historical significance was recognized when it was designated a second-batch Outstanding Historical Building of Shanghai. Observe the cream, light yellow, and pale green facade. The corner turret features distinct geometric Art Deco patterns. These decorative flourishes extend to the main entrance’s gateposts, window grilles, and even the floor tiles within. The building’s layout is equally fascinating. While the main entrance faces the corner, separate street entrances grace both Nanchang Road and Maoming South Road. A serene courtyard nestles behind the building. The ground floor housed shops. The upper floors contained residences of varying sizes, each with a wall fireplace, kitchen, bathroom, and a partially covered balcony. A unique feature was the “one staircase, two apartments” design, with a small pantry between kitchens for servants to deliver meals. Behind the grand facade, a four-story annex, perpetually shaded, housed the servants’ quarters. Each small room measured a mere 7 square meters. A garage occupied the first floor. These quarters were equipped with electric bells to communicate with the main apartments. This juxtaposition of luxury and servitude offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s social hierarchy during the 1930s. Today, Nanchang Mansion, a proud member of Shanghai’s architectural heritage, still stands tall, a silent observer of the city’s ever-changing landscape.