Right now I am travelling through China with my husband and creative podcast soundboard Scott.

So what better to celebrate going on an adventure than to take you with me!

So this week on the podcast we are going on a walking tour around Shanghai with Patrick Cranley from Shanghai Art Deco. 

China might not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of Art Deco architecture but that’s not the case.

While it’s not widespread, Patrick Cranley said there is a lot of Art Deco architecture that can be seen around Shanghai.

During the early 20th century, international architects were being hired to design buildings in China bringing with them the Art Deco influence we were seeing in other nations around the world.

But it wasn’t just buildings that were influenced.

It was everything from fashion, furniture, graphic design and so much more.

When Patrick came to China over 20 years ago he didn’t know the Art Deco world that would open up around him

He has also had a passion for history and learning more about the places he lived in America and across Asia.

In 1998 he co-founded Historic Shanghai  as a way to find out more about the cities heritage and to show others the interesting built, social and cultural history.

As part of that Shanghai Art Deco was born.

Now the team run walking tours, host regular events and were the catalyst for the World Congress on Art Deco being held in the city in 2015.

This is one of Patrick’s favourite Art Deco building in Shanghai – the Bank of China.

And he’s getting the locals on board. Even seeing his local antique dealer slowly start to realise the value and want for early mid century items.

So if you’re ever in Shanghai look out for incredible Art Deco features.

From entire buildings to small details on doors and even fire hydrants.

To learn more about the Art Deco architecture in Shanghai make sure you listen to our chat with Patrick Cranley from Shanghai Art Deco.

And head to our Facebook page and Instagram feed to see more pictures from Shanghai.