Nearly 400 visitors from home and abroad became the first batch of public visitors at the Grand Halls in Shanghai on its first public open day on Sunday. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Nearly 400 visitors from home and abroad became the first batch of public visitors at the Grand Halls in Shanghai on its first public open day on June 16, and the venue will be open to online bookers every last Saturday starting July, according to its operator.

"The visit was spectacular. There is a perfect fusion of old and new. China knows how to do these things very well," said Lisa Martel De Santis Chisholm, an American who has been working in education in the city for 23 years.

Nearly 400 visitors from home and abroad became the first batch of public visitors at the Grand Halls in Shanghai on its first public open day on June 16. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

De Santis Chisholm said she is glad to have the opportunity and privilege to visit the facility, which is one of the few places in Shanghai she had yet to explore before.

"I have seen this building and I have its pictures on my phone. So when I got the opportunity, I was very happy to come in," said she.

Situated at the intersection of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek, the Grand Halls was put into operation on June 16, 2021. In the past three years, the venue has hosted a number of major events.

Nearly 400 visitors from home and abroad became the first batch of public visitors at the Grand Halls in Shanghai on its first public open day on June 16. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"About 10,000 people of different ages and nationalities signed up for reservations to visit the renovated century-old heritage buildings on the WeChat mini program in early June, eager to become the first public visitors," said Bian Min, vice-general manager of Shanghai North Bund Management Co Ltd, which is the operator of the Grand Halls.

"The Grand Halls will be open to the public on the last Saturday of each month starting in July, and reservations for the visit can be made on the 20th of the month," Bian said.

Nearly 400 visitors from home and abroad became the first batch of public visitors at the Grand Halls in Shanghai on its first public open day on June 16. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

By showcasing Shanghai's history, culture and modern development achievements, the facility looks to bring the city closer to local Shanghai people as well as domestic and international visitors, according to Bian.

Belgian musician Tobias Le Compte said the visit was eye-opening.

"I am most impressed by the old style the buildings retained while at the same time, to have so many pieces of modern artworks. This is such a treat for me," said him.

Nearly 400 visitors from home and abroad became the first batch of public visitors at the Grand Halls in Shanghai on its first public open day on June 16. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

During the tours, guides introduced the architectural concept and interior design style of the buildings, and the project's regeneration approach of preserving the heritage as much as possible while skillfully incorporating modern functions.

Reconstructed from three historical buildings, the facilities are renovated to retain the style of a century-old building while incorporating modern design elements. These buildings not only carry the historical memory of Shanghai, but also show the city's innovative spirit and artistic pursuit.

Nearly 400 visitors from home and abroad became the first batch of public visitors at the Grand Halls in Shanghai on its first public open day on June 16. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

For the first time, the garden patio is open to the public, offering a view of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek and the skyline of the Bund, which features buildings of various architectural styles, complemented by the Lujiazui financial district.

Nearly 400 visitors from home and abroad became the first batch of public visitors at the Grand Halls in Shanghai on its first public open day on June 16. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]