Most renovation and design ideas we see tend to come from Europe, the US, or major Australian cities. Far Eastern renovations are less frequently highlighted, so this transformation on Shanghai’s Huaihai Road stands out. Situated in one of the city’s busiest neighborhoods, the apartment was reimagined as a calm urban oasis that deliberately separates the home from the noise, traffic and pollution beyond its walls.
The redesign was completed by the team of Enrico Taranta, Ilaria Bellini, Paulo Guacchione and Nicolle Wen Li of Taranta Creations. They converted what had been a cramped, ordinary apartment into a bright, contemporary residence focused on comfort, flow and refined detailing. The living room became the project’s centerpiece: crisp white walls and expansive floor-to-ceiling drapes create a soothing backdrop, while subtle orange LED lighting introduces warmth and a modern, energetic accent.
To introduce texture and visual interest the designers used 3D wall panels and purpose-built shelving. These 3D textured boards, some with a soft wave motif, contrast with the apartment’s streamlined surfaces and add depth to entry and reception areas. Custom bookshelves serve double duty as sculptural elements and practical storage, providing a geometric rhythm that complements the apartment’s contemporary vocabulary.
Orange lighting and small accent pieces provide rhythmic pops of color without overwhelming the neutral palette. Mirrors are strategically placed to expand sightlines and amplify natural light, creating a sense of openness in a relatively compact footprint. Carefully chosen accessories and wall art enliven rooms while keeping the overall atmosphere calm and composed.
Midcentury modern influences—seen in a few iconic furniture choices—blend with a hint of tropical greenery to give the living area a distinct character. Elements like an eco-friendly fireplace and sculptural side tables contribute both function and style, reinforcing the home’s cosmopolitan yet relaxed identity.
The bedroom continues the calm narrative with long white drapes, a soft neutral palette and carefully chosen textiles that create a serene retreat. Mirrors and restrained accents keep the space feeling airy and restful, while the same orange touches appear sparingly to maintain cohesion with the living areas.
Throughout the apartment the designers balanced contrast and cohesion—mixing textured surfaces with smooth finishes, and neutral tones with vivid accents. Practical design choices such as integrated storage, mirrored surfaces, layered lighting and multifunctional furniture help the home feel larger and more organized without sacrificing aesthetics.
Below are images that show the apartment before renovation and shots taken during the renovation process.
This Shanghai apartment renovation demonstrates how thoughtful layout changes, a restrained color scheme, and targeted accents can transform a compact urban flat into a tranquil, stylish retreat. The project highlights smart storage, layered lighting and material contrast as practical strategies for maximizing comfort and visual appeal in a busy city setting.