Historic Shanghai quarter relocated by robots for underground complex construction
In Shanghai, a unique project involving the relocation of the historic "Huayanli" architectural complex, constructed between the 1920s and 1930s, has been successfully completed. Three buildings, weighing approximately 7,500 tons and encompassing a total area exceeding 4,030 square meters, were temporarily moved to facilitate the construction of a large-scale underground complex. This was reported by the Chinese publication People's Daily.
This extraordinary undertaking marks the largest building relocation project in China's history for Shikumen-style structures, which have been characteristic of Shanghai since the latter half of the 19th century. Shikumen houses are typically two or three-story buildings featuring wooden frames and brick walls. City authorities decided to temporarily clear the site for the construction of the underground complex, with the intention of returning the residential quarter to its original location afterward.
To execute this complex task, specialists deployed 432 robots. The residential complex was mounted onto these devices, which were equipped with lifting mechanisms, moving the structures at a rate of approximately 10 meters per day. The relocation work commenced on May 19th and concluded entirely on June 7th, 2025, when the buildings were returned to their original position. Specialists conducted round-the-clock, real-time monitoring of the robots' status and the entire process, ensuring an even distribution of load to prevent structural deformation.
A multifunctional underground complex spanning 53,000 square meters will be developed beneath the historic quarter. This complex is anticipated to house premium hotels, an art center, a concert venue, and a new subway interchange hub.
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