GRNDCNTRL is a nightclub, which blends the functions of modern yet retro party space, trend-setting interactive socializing destination, and immersive, artistic music scene. 

Innovation:
Distinct from most nightclubs in Shanghai that are dominated by the homogeneous "underground" style, GRNDCNTRL is positioned as a "Shanghai nightlife cultural center". With the metaphorical "theater" concept, the design lifts the hip-pop nightclub to a higher level. An exquisite cultural performance theater is turned into a socializing venue available to the masses through artistic design and commercial strategies, without losing value or the functions of exhibition and experience. The elaborate design, advanced sound system and lighting effects enable this nightclub to come out on top. 

Creativity:
The entrance reveals an avant-garde, experimental and immersive ambience, evoking vivid imaginations and taking people to a surreal world full of mysterious light and shadows. The wall decorations adopt a balanced composition, featuring the style of stage setting. A sequence of symmetrical, curved lighting installations draws on the deep, long lane form of local antique Shikumen buildings, with lines and rhythms guiding experiential circulations and extending inward. The big hall features the hip-pop music style with a strong sense of artistry and technology, hence bringing an avant-garde, futuristic spatial experience. 

In contrast, the small hall is dominated by the house & techno music style, full of immersive lighting and shadows, which produces a film-like, retro atmosphere. Both mirrored spatial scenes take into account the needs of different consumer groups. 

Functionality:
The 9m-high main space continues balanced, harmonious design languages. The spatial narratives and functional layout are centered around the lift-style DJ stage, which provides an unexpected experience and a panoramic view to all details in the space.

Sustainability:
This is a renovation project of an old nightclub. After the original walls were demolished, removed bricks were laid to build the basic staggered steps. Without affecting the load-bearing capacity of old building floor slabs, the original lightweight bricks play a significant role in this project, while also setting the theme. Stone materials, mirror-like finishes, paints, stainless steel, and leather are combined together, generating a distinct visual contrast. The dominant black tone has various shades. The organic curves with simple yet abstract forms break horizontal and vertical compositions, and redefine classic aesthetics. 

Strong hues, simple design and new materials create a visual feast that is out of perspective. The integration of "theater" concept makes the visual game more complex. The bar counter is set back to give way to the "stage", with a view to highlighting people and music.