The renovation to be carrried out by the Ma Yansong’s firm focuses on the Wanmicang warehouse on the south side of the Shanghai Zhangjiang Cement Factory, which was built in 1971 and ceased operations in 2013. Through the juxtaposing of old and new structures, the industrial site will be turned into a multifunctional public facility, with spaces for culture, creativity, commerce, and offices.

The Ark is characterized buy a ‘floating’ metal roof whose curves recall a ship, hence the name given to the project. The rooftop is envisioned for the public to enjoy views from. The west wall is replaced by a curtain wall that is set back to create an outdoor public space. The objective is to preserve the industrial aesthetic of the old warehouse on the banks of the Chuanyang River, and to contrast it with the new extension. Construction work is programmed to wrap up in 2026.