“A marvel of Art Deco architecture” whispers a passerby. This is the New Wing On Department Store. More commonly known as the New Wing On Building.
This magnificent structure stands proudly at 627 Nanjing East Road. It’s a testament to Shanghai’s vibrant past. The building’s history is interwoven with the city’s own evolution. It’s a story of commerce innovation and adaptation.
Originally the site housed an old dance hall. The Wing On Department Store purchased it in 1930. They envisioned a modern replacement. The result? A stunning Art Deco masterpiece. American architect H. H. Hazzard designed the New Wing On Building. The building’s construction was undertaken by two prominent construction firms. The final result is a striking example of Art Deco design. Its geometric lines and vertical accents are breathtaking.
The New Wing On Building wasn’t merely a shopping center. It was a social hub. A place where Shanghai’s elite gathered. The Seventh Floor housed a famous nightclub. The “Seventh Heaven” was known for its luxurious ambiance. It boasted sophisticated features. This included telephone booths and even a firetruck that waited downstairs. It was a glamorous place to be seen.
But the New Wing On Building has seen more than just glittering parties. It played a role in Shanghai’s broadcast history. Shanghai Television Station and Shanghai East Television Station once operated from within. The stations resided within the structure for a period of time. They then moved to new facilities in the late 1990s.
Today the New Wing On Building is owned by Parkson and Alibaba Group. Its history however lives on. It stands as a powerful symbol. This symbol represents not just a department store. It represents Shanghai’s resilience and its enduring spirit. The New Wing On Building is a vital part of the city’s legacy. A visible manifestation of its past and its future. It’s more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a living piece of Shanghai’s story. A story waiting to be explored. A story we continue to explore here today.