"Our interests are an architecture that enhances the imprint of the passing of time and a tight relation with nature," a statement of the studio says. "It is designed as space to socialize, to gather, for culture and creation ... We consider it ideal to intervene as little as possible, taking the maximum advantage of what exists."

However, some changes were necessary. The roof of the central station was replaced by new material to provide better lighting, for example. But its major steel-framed structure remains. Better road connections among the warehouses were designed to assist visits and exchanges of knowledge among various groups of people there.

The redbrick walls, a watch tower and original structures are largely kept intact, but new materials like glass and metal help the facades shine.

Pan Fei was a senior manager of a famous online travel company. When he opened Deck, a cafe by day and a bar at night, in Lang Yuan Station, he had to take on new business challenges.