With so much of Shanghai's historical architecture disappearing day by day, you might think that most Shanghailanders, ourselves included, have become desensitized to the frequent reports of demolition and destruction. Looks like that isn't true, as we are still heartbroken over Malcolm Moore's recent story on the latest casualty of Shanghai's relentless urban development, British author J.G. Ballard's childhood home. more ›

So not only will March 28 bring us the grand unveiling of the brand new Bund, it seems that the historic Peace Hotel has also chosen that day to welcome in the hordes. The north wing, which faces People's Square will retain its original appearance and the south wing will become a Swatch store. When it closed roughly three years ago, we mused on its history - you can read up on it here. more ›