Even PRADA comes to pay homage—this century-old mansion is even more stunning than a movie set

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department, compiled and reported

Over the past decade, the renowned Italian fashion brand Prada has been dedicated to art and cultural preservation, undertaking the conservation and restoration of historical and cultural heritage around the world, including Milan’s 19th-century Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Venice’s Ca’ Corner della Regina. In 2011, Prada turned its attention to a historic mansion in Shanghai. After a seven-year restoration project, it opened to the public in October 2017 and will serve as Prada’s residence in China, blending fashion culture with history.

Located in central Shanghai, the former residence of the Rong family was once the private home of the prominent Rong Zongjing clan and was hailed as “one of the most elegant mansions in Shanghai.” Prada, in collaboration with architect Roberto Baciocchi, initiated the restoration of this grand mansion, striving to replicate traditional craftsmanship and installation techniques. Even the restoration of the walls and stained glass windows was carried out with meticulous attention to detail.