New Urban Forest in Shanghai Goes Viral Online

Columbia Circle is back in the spotlight again. The newly unveiled Columbia Circle Phase II has gone viral on social media with its "urban forest" design.

Video Tour of 

Columbia Circle Phase II

From century-old architecture to popular stores, from theater festivals to cultural markets, from pool to park, Columbia Circle offers a mix of history and modern life.

Spanning a total area of approximately 24,000 ㎡, Columbia Circle Phase II combines office spaces and commercial areas.

The central square and courtyard are surrounded by lush greenery, creating an urban forest in downtown Shanghai.

The public space of Columbia Circle Phase II exceeds 7,000 ㎡, nearly 2,000 ㎡ more than Phase I.

The landscape is rich with conifers, ferns, and over a hundred other plants.

Various plants are labelled with signage, making it comparable to a botanical garden. The free-growing ferns add a wild and vibrant touch.

Thoughtful design is sprinkled throughout the hub. For example, when the misting system activates, the area transforms into a wonderland. Even the drainage grates are designed with fern-shaped cutouts.

Five new buildings have been constructed, maintaining the Bauhaus industrial style of Phase I while incorporating elements from the historic structures.

The buildings are connected by corridors, creating a three-dimensional pathway.

The rooftops feature sports areas and gardens. Future plans include pop-up markets, concerts, exhibitions, live performances, fashion shows, and other events.

In addition, the signage design draws inspiration from the Phase I swimming pool, uses the three colors of the swimming pool mosaics, and evolves them based on the form of squares. The design of the underground parking refers to the classic black and white chessboard of the former residence of Sun Ke.

As Columbia Circle Phase II opens, new stores and restaurants are already drawing in visitors. In addition to three recommended restaurants, you'll find the first flagship store of PURE Electric in China, the nautica x Reebok store, the sports brand JUMP+JOY, the Ozark Hub outdoor lifestyle store, and more.

Blue Bottle Coffee

Blue Bottle Coffee has opened its seventh location in the Chinese mainland in Columbia Circle.

Despite its compact size, the minimalist central bar and white design create an airy and open atmosphere.

The interior stays true to Blue Bottle's signature concrete style with recycled materials used.

Kaiji Teahouse

Kaiji, a modern Chinese teahouse, can be found in Columbia Circle Phase II.

Targeting a younger crowd, it strikes a perfect balance between modern style and traditional culture.

Prices on the menu range from RMB 22 to RMB 36, offering a selection of traditional teas (hot or cold brew), tea blends, and Chinese snacks.

PIZZERIA

PIZZERIA specializes in wood-fried pizzas. They use AVPN-certified ingredients and adhere to traditional pizza-making methods.

More stores will open soon in the coming months.

Next to the iconic blue pool in Columbia Circle Phase I, you'll find a collection of popular restaurants.

DIAN FU

DIAN FU brings together the rich culinary traditions and ingredients from Yunnan's 16 regions.

The bistro offers over 70 wines. The selection includes rare and limited-edition wines from renowned regions, with a particular focus on Burgundy.

In addition to signature dishes like tofu, grilled beef skewers, and rice noodles, the recent addition of seasonal mushroom dishes has been a hit.

Naif Coffee · Bistro

Located on the second floor above the pool, Naif Coffee · Bistro is both a café and a bistro.

The flower-adorned windowsill, French-style dining area, rich walnut and red tones, and terrace all contribute to a strong vacation vibe, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing meal.

LENBACH POOLSIDE

LENBACH POOLSIDE features Spanish-style open corridors and tropical island-inspired décor. Whether you're enjoying Mediterranean cuisine or simply soaking up the atmosphere, it's the perfect chill-out spot.

CASA BAJA

CASA BAJA specializes in refined Spanish cuisine. Whether it's the signature tapas or the seafood paella, each dish offers a distinctive taste of Spanish cuisine.

LOS PACOS

LOS PACOS, led by an American chef, offers Mexican dishes and Texas-style barbecue.

In addition to these highlights, Phase I is home to several other popular restaurants, including Sapore di Pane, Lan Ting Moon, Nong, coffea SHED, and Seesaw Coffee. Whether you're strolling through the area or looking for a bite to eat, Phase I has something to satisfy every craving.

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