SIX MONTH PHOTO SEQUENCE

Inspired by the dynamic pace of construction and general beautification of Shanghai in the months leading up to the 2010 World Exposition, we recorded a view from our office on a daily basis over a period of six months leading up to the opening.  The composite selection presented here, shows a view looking west, with the Puxi side of the Exposition site literally off frame to the left. 

Framing the left-hand side is a tower that forms part of a new residential complex that overlooks the site with excellent views of the Huangpu River.  With the inevitable rezoning and development of the Exposition site after it has run its course, these privileged views may interrupted with other residential development.  Even though this complex has no direct relation to the Exposition, it is subject to construction timelines that take into consideration noise, dust, aesthetics and the impact on traffic that nearby construction will have.  At the time of this post, the exterior cladding, window fit-out and balcony railings were substantially complete, possible in part due to the double shifts, seven days a week.  The sequence covers the construction from top-off through the addition of the fenestration.

Late in the series, some of the night shots reveal how major highway overpasses intersecting the major southern Zhong Shan Nan Yi Lu (shown in the middle of the photograph) have been illuminated blue as part of an expansive display.  This illumination strategy that includes the nearby Lupu Bridge has even been taken up by commercial and residential buildings in the nearby vicinity.

Also revealing, perhaps to those not native to Shanghai is the general weather pattern for late autumn, winter and spring, which is overcast with low contrast save a few days with clear skies.