A 1930s oasis in the heart of the metropolis: why it’s not just a hotel, but a portal to the “golden age”
In the heart of Shanghai, amid the bustling metropolis, glass skyscrapers, and the frenetic pace of tech-driven China, there is a place where time takes a dramatic turn.
As soon as you turn off the bustling street into the cozy alleys of the Xuhui district, the noise of traffic fades away, and a completely different Shanghai comes into view the one from the novels of the 1930s, where Western chic intertwined with the mysterious East.
This is Capella Shanghai the city’s only heritage hotel, consisting entirely of authentic historic shikumen-style villas.
Here, there is no typical glass-enclosed lobby, no thousands of rooms connected by corridors, and no identical standard suites. Instead, there is genuine heritage, transformed into ultra-comfortable private spaces.
The shikumen style (which translates to “stone gate”) emerged in Shanghai in the early 20th century. It is a unique hybrid: on the outside, classic European red-brick townhouses with elegant arches; on the inside, traditional Chinese courtyards that guarantee absolute privacy.
In the 1930s, the Jian Ye Li complex served as housing for the elite. When Capella undertook its restoration, the architects and legendary designer Jia Ibrahim faced a complex challenge: to preserve the historic spirit of the place while transforming it into a world-class hotel.
The result exceeded all expectations. Artisans meticulously restored the brickwork, narrow alleyways, and stone bas-reliefs by hand. Inside, they created 55 multi-level villas, where every square meter is imbued with the spirit of Chinoiserie an elegant blend of French decor and Eastern aesthetics.
Forget about standard room layouts. At Capella Shanghai, every guest has their own three-story villa at their disposal, ranging from 111 square meters in size, with a vertical spatial layout.
First level: You’re greeted by a private entrance courtyard, hidden from prying eyes, and a cozy living room for evening relaxation or gatherings.
Second level: the mezzanine the perfect spot for working, reading, or enjoying your morning coffee.
Third level:a spacious bedroom with a king-size bed and a luxurious bathroom finished in natural stone.
Roof: A private terrace overlooking the tiled roofs of old Shanghai. This is the best place to watch the sunset with a glass of wine while listening to the city fall silent.
Entry Level (Shikumen Deluxe / Premier Villa)
Capella Shanghai is not just about architecture; it’s an experience on every level. The hotel’s premier dining destination is the French restaurant le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire, founded by legendary chef Pierre Gagnaire.
Awarded a Michelin star, it offers classic French sophistication with a light and modern twist, perfectly complementing the historic setting of the French Quarter.
After dinner, it’s worth stopping by the cozy Le Bar for a signature cocktail or spending some time rejuvenating at the Auriga Spa. The hotel’s spa concept is unique: treatments here are designed in accordance with the phases of the moon and are based on traditional Eastern wellness techniques.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the city, Capella Culturists personal cultural guides are on hand. They don’t just recommend tourist spots; they open the door to exclusive private galleries, art studios, and hidden routes through old Shanghai.
Capella Shanghai is a place for those who have grown weary of the soulless glitz of modern skyscrapers and are seeking genuine emotions, depth, history, and absolute privacy in one of the world’s most dynamic metropolises.
Address: 480 West Jianguo Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China (480 建国西路, 徐汇区, 上海市) | Phone: 86 21 5466 6688 | Website: capellahotels.com/shanghai
