These days, China has its fair share of modern homegrown brands, and they navigate the booming market with great insight and pizzazz. Lifestyle brand Genshang targets a demographic of fashionable young women with fashion items, and more interestingly, understands the wider context of modern living. Its flagship store in Shanghai‘s bustling Huanshan Lu area features an art space, and now also a café on the premises, designed by local practice Office Coastline. The venue is situated on the ground floor of upscale Huanyu Mall, and measures 198 sqm. (2,131 sq.ft.) across a single level. The main entrance is captured by brass window frames and a recessed doorway, and the shiny material extends inside by way of a series of pendant lamps over an elongated bar with stools, but any visitor will first come across a display and alcove showcasing home products and clothing. The aforementioned bar has a sturdy wooden top and an uneven wall relief as backdrop. Directly opposite, Genshang‘s main dining space is situated, furnished sofas, wooden tables and chairs, but also, two sets of specially designed round tables with matching chairs double as displays for events. Behind folding doors the lounge room can be found, featuring a secluded setting for private events. It’s furnished with similar pieces, and the uneven wall relief pops up here as well, albeit adorned with brass-coloured mirrors. Genshang‘s new café is primarily serves a range of artisanal tea variations, but the menu also lists a selection of tasty light snacks and bites.
Genshang
Huanyu Mall, 568 Jianguo Xi Lu, Shop L136-137 (Huashun Lu)
200031 Shanghai
Publishers Note
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