TRANSFORMATION OF TYPO-MORPHOLOGY OF COLUMBIA CIRCLE IN SHANGHAI CHANGING DISTRICT

Abstract

This paper studies transformation of the typo-morphology of Columbia Circle in Shanghai Changning District from 1931 to 2018. Columbia Circle was initiated as a real estate project and became a valuable historic area with master pieces. The typo-morphology of Columbia Circle has gone through a significant transformation process from a suburb to the inner city during different periods of time. Through a diachronic study, the typo-morphology of Columbia Circle in different periods can be presented in several diagrams, which locate the specific variants of morphology in each period. Based on typological reading, the authors aim to explore the rules of its transformation process which reveal social and cultural forces behind. Some questions are raised in this research, i.e. what is the typo-morphology transformation process of Columbia Circle? How to define different phases according to the typo-morphological features? How is the current typo-morphology changing? How does the physical transformation reflect on the changing of social conditions of Columbia Circle? After a preliminary study, the authors conclude five transformation periods: main construction period, second phase construction, plan lot subdivision, property subdivision and property reunification. Specific character of urban morphology and building types reflect the changing of social conditions in concession, from construction to localization and eventually to gentrification. The research of Columbia Circle presents the influence of social forces on typo-morphology, which enlightens the policy making for urban regeneration and heritage preservation in Shanghai's historical districts.