Atmospheres of Shanghai: Scenarios of Ascent, Fading, and Transition

This study explores the dynamic and simultaneously evanescent atmospheres of Shanghai, a city characterised by frenetic transformation as a consequence of China’s advancement and prosperity in recent decades. Grounded on Peter Zumthor’s conceptualisation of atmospheres within spatial disciplines, as well as Françoise Choay’s insights into the evolution of the urban environment from physical to intangible, it aims to decipher atmospheric layers to interpret the phenomena of urban landscape metamorphosis better. Through a careful examination of five distinct yet interconnected urban frames—“Atmospheres of Ascent,” “Atmospheres in Fading,” and “Atmospheres in Transition”—this study illustrates how a combination of technological advancements, social changes, and cultural heritage continuously reshapes Shanghai’s urban fabric. The importance of documenting these changes is emphasised, highlighting the role of this record in providing a foundational layer for future academic and practical applications. By integrating theoretical discussions with empirical observations, the article contributes to a broader understanding of how atmospheric perceptions influence urban living and planning in rapidly growing metropolises. This comprehensive approach enriches our understanding of Shanghai’s urban identity and offers a framework for examining other cities experiencing similar rapid transformations, making a significant contribution to the fields of urban studies and architecture.