Tianjin restores century-old villas in Italian Style Town as hotels, public spaces

Century-old villas in Tianjin's Italian Style Town are being restored and repurposed as hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, bringing new life to the city's architectural heritage while preserving its historic character.

Established in 1902 as an Italian concession, the district is home to buildings once occupied by prominent intellectuals and other historical figures. Today, many of the structures are being adapted for modern use as part of the city's broader urban renewal efforts.

In February, Tianjin announced plans to advance 32 ongoing urban renewal projects, launch 15 new ones, and revitalize 21 historic villas this year. One project involves restoring 17 historic buildings with a balance of modern safety and functionality requirements with the preservation of their original architecture.

"The restoration of cultural relics follows the principles of minimum intervention and preserving their original state. We retain 80 to 90 percent of the buildings' original structures, decorative features, and functions," said Xu Yanqing, deputy director of Hebei district's culture and tourism bureau.

The 17 buildings have been converted into Patina Tianjin, a hotel that aims to make parts of its facilities and cultural activities accessible to the wider public.

Roman Angulo, the hotel's general manager, said its restaurants and cultural programs are intended to welcome locals and visitors, not just overnight guests. "We want these buildings to become an open platform for exchange, where local communities and guests can meet, share ideas and co-create culture," he said.

The hotel also plans to offer selected cultural experiences to non-resident visitors and incorporate energy-efficient features into the restored properties.

The project reflects Tianjin's broader efforts to preserve and revitalize its architectural heritage. Last year, the city had identified 877 historic buildings across 15 districts, covering a total floor area of 1.26 million square meters, according to the Tianjin Bureau of Culture and Tourism.

Ma Yucong contributed to this story.