ŌRTENSIA Cafe, Shanghai

#shanghaionbudget ŌRTENSIA in Shanghai is a stunning showcase of cultural fusion—blending Parisian elegance, Japanese subtlety, and Shanghai’s historic Shikumen heritage. Designed by Chris Shao Studio and opened in late 2024, the café-restaurant spans a beautifully restored Shikumen building in Jing’an’s Zhangyuan district . From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by lush hydrangea motifs: a sculptural reception desk shaped like a skeletal bloom, metal floral panels, and a curved central installation that balances feminine curves with masculine structure . The design palette flows through rich greenery, golden browns, reds, and soft yellows—all layered with craftsmanship, from rustic tile to gradient lacquer . Lighting plays a central role: mellow tones illuminate fabric pendants and velvet walls, while the VIP space upstairs features gradient-painted walls, polished finishes, and an ornate bronze mirror by Charlotte Kingsnorth—its hydrangea-edged form evoking time’s passage . The atmosphere is intimate and artful, creating a warm sanctuary for enjoying ŌRTENSIA’s refined café offerings by day or indulging in French-Japanese tasting menus by night. Located at Zhangyuan W14, 240 North Maoming Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai.