Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li

Located within the cultural preservation zone of Xuhui District, Shanghai’s only all-villa urban hotel and one of the last remaining clusters of Shikumen architecture – Capella Shanghai dates back to the 1930s. Spread across 43,000 square meters, the compound comprises 55 Shikumen villas, 40 luxurious serviced residences, award-winning Capella Wellness, a Michelin-star French restaurant - le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire, and The Gallery - a collection of niche and upmarket retail and dining brands.

By preserving the building’s architectural heritage and optimizing the legacy and character of this historic site, Capella Shanghai offers discerning guests the authentic experience of Shanghai’s romantic past. Visitors need only set foot within the estate to be transported back in time to an era when Shanghai was the gateway to Asia, a trading town for foreigners and locals alike.

Sensitively restored lanes feature distinctive Western and Chinese design elements that define the Shikumen architectural style. Chinese matou, or ‘horse head’ gables adorn these three-story brick and stone-accented townhouses while the interiors were conceived by the renowned Jaya Ibrahim. The bespoke interior design is a careful blend of classic Chinese elements and 19th-century French flair: imagine spaces where customized French-accented furniture are placed alongside Chinese-inspired artwork and accessories to portray a cohesive intermingling of East-West elements, yet maintaining the Shikumen’s original layout. This thoroughly unique and residential setting will be the welcomed respite for travellers seeking a peek into the past without compromising on the comforts of modern luxury.

Shikumen Villas
The one- to three-bedroom villas, starting from 111 square meters, are furnished with a private courtyard, a parlor for receiving visitors as well as an entertainment room equipped with BOSE sound system and a 55-inch flat screen television. Bedrooms adorned in soothing colors of pale green and dark wood, with a writing desk and walk-in closet. The customized furniture provides an added dimension of luxury, fitted into the original Shikumen structure for maximum space and aesthetics. Other features include spacious marble-clad bathrooms with separate bath and standing shower facilities offering Frédéric Malle bathroom amenities, a rooftop terrace and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the urban hotel.

The Living Room
The legendary The Living Room is a sanctuary to browse both old and new, Chinese and European, artwork and literature. In-house guests can also sit and sip on a cup of coffee or tea with light canapés, catered by La Boulangerie, throughout the day.

Capella Culturists
The Capella Culturists are on hand to assist guests with curating their ideal Shanghai experience, be it gastronomic discovery, shopping expedition or journeys on the road less travelled.

Secret Garden
In the heart of the urban resort sits a tranquil spot of lush greenery with wicker lounge seating and the sound of bubbling water from the fountain. Over 94 meters in length, the Secret Garden outdoor space is where in-house guests and residents are able to relax.

One Michelin-star French Restaurant - le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire
The only restaurant in China concept by celebrated chef Pierre Gagnaire opened on 15 July 2017, located in The Gallery of Capella Shanghai, along the leafy tree-lined boulevard outside the hotel. Offering a casual chic venue for all occasions, the iconic chef’s approach to the menu is one of simplicity, honesty and elegance. Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The extensive wine and bespoke cocktail list is carefully crafted to enhance diners’ culinary journey in a classic Parisian setting reminiscent of traditional Shanghai’s glamour. Guests can enjoy the high quality cuisine in Capella Shanghai, whether for in-room dining or catering, le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire provides an unparalleled experience in culinary arts.

La Boulangerie
Literally meaning ‘Bread Shop’ in French, la Boulangerie is situated at The Gallery, alongside the casual chic French dining concept, le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire. Using butter and flour imported from France to maintain a quality that is consistent with all of Mr. Gagnaire’s international outlets, la Boulangerie offers the perfect pit stop for a coffee and croissant to-go in the mornings or a leisurely afternoon break with classic savory and sweet confectionery, served with quality tea.

Auriga Spa
Housed in two of Shanghai's authentic Shikumen villas within the Jian Ye Li estate, Auriga Spa is a cocoon for guests to rest, rejuvenate and tap into celestial rhythms, has a distinctive approach to wellness and beauty based on the cycles of the moon. There are seven treatment rooms, including two couple suites. Luxurious spa facilities include vitality pool, sauna, steam room, salt-wall lounge, ice fountain, wellness studio and fitness centre.