Crystal Bridge mega-project completes construction

Crystal Bridge, an ultra-large mixed-use complex located in the core business district of Changning, was delivered on November 21.

With a total investment exceeding 8 billion yuan (US$1.13 billion) and a gross floor area of nearly 250,000 square meters, the key project is built around the core concept of a "three-dimensionally connected garden-style business environment," integrating diverse formats and creating innovative scenarios.

Crystal Bridge was jointly developed by global real estate giant Tishman Speyer, New Changning Group, and Mitsubishi Estate. World-renowned architectural design firm NBBJ led the overall planning, Mitsubishi Estate Design Co. handled the interior and landscape design, and China Construction Eighth Engineering Division undertook the construction.

The project emphasizes green, smart, and connected features. Through an innovative elevated corridor design, it seamlessly links five grade-A office towers with distinctive commercial spaces, creating signature themed scenes such as diamond facades, sky gardens, and an open-air theater. This forms a four-dimensional integrated business ecosystem blending work and leisure, commerce and nature.

In the office sector, the project focuses on the digital economy and international trade, having attracted anchor tenants such as the Lalamove East China Regional Headquarters, alongside multiple international trade institutions and innovative commerce enterprises, creating an industrial clustering effect.

Crystal Bridge is situated at the intersection of Tianshan Road and Gubei Road, boasting direct access to Metro Lines 2 and 15. It offers a 15-minute commute to the Hongqiao transportation hub and 30-minute connectivity to Shanghai's core urban areas.

Changning launches entrepreneurship hub for overseas talent

The Hongqiao Haichuang Bay, developed by Changning District for overseas returnee entrepreneurship, was launched on November 26 at the opening ceremony of the Forum on Coordinated Regional Talent Development and Yangtze River Delta Talent Integration.

Strategically located within the East Hongqiao area of the Hongqiao International Central Business District, Hongqiao Haichuang Bay is designed to serve as a premier "first stop for entrepreneurship" for overseas talent. The first phase of the project spans a construction area of 2,500 square meters, featuring dedicated zones including a key industry joint incubation area, public service zone, co-working spaces, and offices for startup teams.

The hub provides a comprehensive package of policy support and talent services for outstanding innovators and entrepreneurs, encompassing scenario application opportunities, R&D support, and talent recruitment incentives. Its operational services are deeply connected to industrial resources, focusing on the technological needs of key regional enterprises. It aims to introduce overseas technology teams, foster entrepreneurial project development, and seamlessly integrate and deeply merge innovation and industrial chains.

Concurrently launched are ten new talent innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives covering areas such as startup subsidies, talent recruitment rewards, and technological innovation support.

The introduction of these measures signals that Hongqiao Haichuang Bay not only serves overseas talent but also expands its vision to the broader landscape of the Yangtze River Delta region.

This forum is part of the series of events for the 5th Shanghai Global Talents Innovation & Entrepreneurship Summit, aiming to deepen regional talent cooperation and exchange. During the forum, a series of important platforms, policies, and service measures focusing on Yangtze River Delta talent integration were unveiled.

The Collaborative Service Initiative for Yangtze River Delta Urban Talent Platforms was announced. Co-initiated by the Hongqiao International Talent Service Center, the Shanghai Hongqiao One-Stop Service Center for Overseas Talent, and the high-level (comprehensive) talent service centers from Suzhou, Jiaxing, and Hefei, the initiative outlines eight specific collaborative measures dedicated to achieving complementary advantages and multiplied efficacy in talent services across the region.

Shanghai L'Avenue illuminates the season with ‘Winter Gala’ theme

Shanghai L'Avenue ushered in the winter season by lighting up its festive decorations under the theme "Winter Gala" on November 27.

This year's winter theme blends illustrative aesthetics with the spirit of elegant sports, drawing inspiration from the poised movements of equestrianism and fencing. It reimagines rhythm, lines, and scenes to craft an immersive artistic environment.

In L'Avenue's outdoor plaza, an artistic installation inspired by an equestrian leap captures the moment in mid-air. Dazzling light points interplay with the figure of a white horse and its rider, creating a scene that feels both dynamic and ethereal. Inside, the installations channel the rhythmic footwork of fencing, with ribbons, lines, and festive lights weaving through the space to establish a winter ambiance that balances elegance with energy.

Meanwhile, the LG2 level of L'Avenue has undergone a renewal, transforming into an open community space reminiscent of a city "culinary courtyard" under the theme "Walk & Eat." It brings together three main attractions: the Foolu Mart food market, a fresh supermarket, and a seafood stall.

Additionally, select multi-brand fashion retailer MTPT and lifestyle sports brands like Dahon folding bicycles have newly entered L'Avenue. Ranging from high-end athletic styles to trendy lifestyle offerings, these additions merge modern, health-conscious experiences with the artistic rhythm of the Winter Gala celebration.

Fall magic transforms Zhongshan Park into a picturesque retreat

As deep autumn arrives, Zhongshan Park reveals its poetic side with vast sun-drenched lawns, winding tree-lined paths, gilded canopies, and a layered tapestry of maillard-hued leaves. Strolling through this urban oasis, visitors are enveloped in an effortlessly soothing and uplifting atmosphere.

At one of the park's most popular photo spots, the maple tree near the Four-Corner Pavilion has turned a captivating crimson. Not far away, the ginkgo trees have entered their peak viewing period with golden leaves shimmering in the sunlight. Together with the fiery red maples, they compose a vivid, richly-colored autumn masterpiece.

Arguably exuding the most ambiance is the plane tree landscape path between Gate 1 and Gate 2. A mosaic of yellow, red, and brown leaves interweaves overhead. On clear days, sunlight filters through the branches, creating dappled shadows that dance with every step.

Standing sentinel along the path is the park's treasure—a plane tree over 150 years old. Its expansive, multi-trunked form supports a colossal crown, resembling a giant, vibrantly-hued umbrella.

Despite the cooling temperatures, this century-old park has lost none of its vitality. The cheerful rhythm of square dancing, the determined pace of walkers on the trails, the melodious notes of a flute drifting from the woods... residents embrace the late autumn season in their own diverse ways.

When the sun is out, it's the perfect time to visit Zhongshan Park. Take a leisurely walk, bask in the sunshine, admire the red leaves, and breathe in the crisp scent of foliage. The unique flavor of this deep autumn is best savored in person.

‘Next Stop Gubei’ initiative fosters community integration for international talent

This year, Hongqiao Subdistrict has continued to implement the “Next Stop Gubei” initiative within the Gubei international talent community, not only enhancing community governance but also helping international talent find a sense of home and belonging in the area.

The “Next Stop Gubei” program centers on Jingchen Apartment, organizing a variety of activities to foster deep exchanges and integration among residents, jointly building a harmonious and livable community environment.

Jingchen Apartment offers a substantial number of units with diverse layouts and comprehensive facilities, attracting both families with children and young talent returning from overseas studies.

Through open surveys, the subdistrict found that many returning talent are eager to establish deep connections with their surroundings and neighbors. While the convenient and comfortable community environment is appreciated, opportunities for exploration and engagement were lacking. In response to these needs, “Next Stop Gubei” designed a series of co-creation activities aimed at breaking down barriers between people and fostering mutual understanding and support among community members.

Among the various activities, a talent apartment city walk centered around pets has drawn particular attention. Participants naturally engage in conversations while enjoying the company of their pets.

The initiative also features in-depth interviews with community members, uncovering and sharing the vibrant stories of diverse talent living in the area. Through the vivid accounts of the residents, Gubei has transformed from merely a residential location into a community rich with stories and warmth.

Furthermore, the initiative has meticulously designed a “Talent Welcome Kit 2.0.” This updated version includes practical items such as a neighborhood roaming map, a community guide to recommended shops, and a talent services card. It also creatively introduces elements like the character “Xiao Rong” and a “Next Stop Gubei” badge.