Discover the Timeless Charm of Shanghai’s Iconic Wu Kang Road Building

Standing majestically at a six-way intersection in Shanghai, the Wu Kang Road Building (formerly known as the Normandy Apartments) is more than just a historic structure—it’s a symbol of the city’s architectural heritage and cosmopolitan past.

Completed in 1924, this remarkable building was designed by none other than László Hudec, the influential architect behind many of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks. With its eight floors and distinctive ship-like shape, the Wu Kang Road Building cuts a striking figure against the modern city skyline. Its ground-floor arcade and elegant curved facade give it the appearance of a grand vessel navigating the urban landscape—a design so unique that it is now one of only three surviving ship-style buildings in the world.

What makes the Wu Kang Road Building truly special are its artistic details: the soft flowing arcs, the romantic arched colonnades, and the warm, nostalgic red bricks that have endured through a century of change. As one of Shanghai’s earliest veranda-style apartment buildings, it represents a blend of European influence and local craftsmanship.

Today, it remains not only an architectural treasure but also a beloved cultural landmark. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone who appreci beauty with a story, the Wu Kang Road Building invites you to pause and admire—a timeless masterpiece in the heart of a ever-evolving city.