Shikumen is a traditional Shanghainese architectural style combining Western and Chinese elements that first appeared in Shanghai in the 1860s. Today, Xintiandi is a neighbourhood of dozens of shikumen buildings that have been restored and transformed into shops, galleries, restaurants, cafés and pedestrian streets. It is a ground-breaking construction concept that blends ancient Chinese elements with a modern lifestyle and offers visitors an alternative way to appreciate the history of the city whilst they shop or have a coffee. It is also considered one of China’s first “lifestyle centres”.