Ren says the team had to do extensive work on the interiors during the restoration, however, efforts were made to preserve certain fixtures, such as the exquisite staircase column heads.

The team also improved the functionality of the compound.

"For example, the original doors and windows of the buildings were single-glazed and wooden. The construction unit customized an aluminum alloy alternative that looks like wood and used double-glazed glass so that the buildings get to retain their original look while receiving an upgrade in terms of thermal-and-sound insulation," Ren says.

The In-Shanghai Artfest, which is the first art event to take place in The INLET, kicked off on Nov 26 and will see artists from different fields, including opera, jazz and modern dance, perform through Sunday.

Initiated by the Center for China Shanghai International Arts Festival and supported by the local government, the festival aims to bring art closer to the masses.

A series of events such as performances, exhibitions and fairs will take place until April even after the festival.

"The INLET is a stage for art," says Zheng Bingze, CEO of the Chongbang Group, adding that he hopes young people in Shanghai will participate in cultural activities there.