- Date
- 19 October 2026
Benoy’s Wei Tang, Project Director of the Shanghai Studio, gave the keynote presentation at the recent Pan-Commerce Innovation Conference – Design & Renovation Innovation Forum. The talk was a highlight of the three-day conference, which kicked off in Hefei, China, on 14 October. Titled Public Exploration of Multi-Dimensional Urban Regeneration, Tang’s talk delved into design thinking and practical pathways for urban regeneration in an age when stock development dominates the landscape.
She noted that contemporary urban regeneration has evolved in recent decades from mere facade upgrades to a multi-dimensional reconfiguration of public value, industrial functions, spatial experience and urban interface. Benoy has a long history of blurring the interface between public and private space, breaking the boundaries of existing buildings and stitching them into the urban landscape through spatial and social activation. This approach ensures regeneration projects not only enhance asset values but also integrate with the physical and social fabric of the city.
Tang presented two Benoy projects currently in progress:
Beijing Century Golden Resources Renovation: The revitalisation of a large-scale traditional commercial building using an integrated architecture and interior design approach. Going far beyond a superficial façade refresh, the design reconfigures the spatial circulation while introducing diverse experiential tenants to unlock the long-term commercial vitality of the existing asset.
CITIC Gala Lane, Shanghai: Another regeneration project, rooted in the unique character of Yangpu’s historic waterfront district. The project reconnects the city’s historic fabric with contemporary commerce through the reorganisation of functional spaces and an architectural renewal. The design creates a renewed development that balances historical depth and modern dynamism.
In recognition of their innovative design and exemplary value in urban regeneration, both projects were honoured with the 2026 Commercial Renewal & Innovation Project Award at the conference’s concurrent awards ceremony. Hosted by Van Sound Club, this year’s conference was themed around pooling development momentum across sectors and expanding the boundaries of five core professional capabilities. It provided practitioners with methodologies for deep specialisation and cross-sector inspiration.
As Benoy approaches its 80th year, it continues to advance its expertise in urban regeneration in China and beyond. With a balance of creative ambition and commercial value embedded in every design, the practice consistently creates the conditions for cities around the world, and the spaces within them, to thrive.