Image courtesy of Shine.cn.
Aldo Cibic, a renowned figure in Italian design for over 40 years, has taken a strikingly different path in recent years. Known for his contributions to architecture, interiors, and product design, Cibic has chosen to live a humble and simple life in Shanghai. This decision has profoundly influenced both his personal philosophy and creative practice.
Image courtesy of Shine.cn.
Living Simply in Anshan Wu Cun
For the first time in his career, Cibic resides in a small apartment with just a handful of objects and minimal clothing. His home is located in Anshan Wu Cun, a residential area built initially as accommodations for industrial workers during the mid-20th century. The neighbourhood, now aged and weathered, reflects a bygone era of China’s urban development. It is here, amidst modest surroundings, that Cibic has found both peace and inspiration.
Cibic’s apartment was once an ordinary and irregular space, far removed from Shanghai’s glitzy, modern aesthetics. He transformed it into a warm, harmonious haven, blending local influences with Italian design sensibilities. This integration of cultures embodies his belief in creating connections between people and traditions through design.
Image courtesy of Shine.cn.
Redesigning the Ordinary
The transformation of the apartment was a labour of love. To achieve a precise architectural space, Cibic made structural adjustments. He sacrificed a few square meters to create perfect geometry. The interior is a careful mix of mild colours, such as sage green in the main room. This contrasts with bold, vibrant red in the kitchen and bathroom.
The flooring, a reclaimed wooden surface, adds warmth and character. It extends throughout the apartment, including the bathroom and kitchen. Traditional elements, such as wooden shutters, a vintage air fan above the bed, and a wooden platform for books and storage, establish a cozy and timeless ambience.
Sustainability and Upcycled Elegance
Cibic’s commitment to sustainability is evident in his choice of materials and furnishings. The bedspread and pillows, crafted by his wife’s company, NothingNew.it, are made from upcycled hemp fabrics. These are dyed in soft, earthy hues. This attention to detail highlights Cibic’s dedication to creating environmentally conscious designs without sacrificing aesthetics.
Even the furniture tells a story: a vintage Brionvega stereo radio-phonograph, iconic of Italian design, sits alongside contemporary prototypes, such as the lamps and yellow table Cibic personally designed. The space reflects his belief in blending the old and new to create a unique and meaningful living environment.
Colour, Light, and the Flavor of Life
For Cibic, colour plays a vital role in design—it is, in his words, “the flavour of life.” The juxtaposition of the warm wooden flooring with the bold red of the kitchen and the soft sage green in the living space creates a lively yet serene aesthetic.
Lighting, too, is carefully considered. Rejecting the cold overhead lights standard in many Chinese interiors, Cibic introduced warm wall-washing lighting, enhancing the apartment’s inviting atmosphere. Subtle illumination highlights architectural details, adding depth and texture to the space.
Image courtesy of Shine.cn.
Philosophy of Living
Cibic’s Shanghai apartment embodies his evolving design philosophy: simplicity, mindfulness, and adaptability. He describes it as a “little loft” where the essentials take centre stage—a comfortable table for eating and working, a multifunctional bed that doubles as a couch, and ample open space for movement and reflection.
“In a way, all these places are like little lofts,” Cibic says, referencing similar homes he has designed in Milan, Paris, London, and Turkey. “You don’t need many things to live well. I feel at ease when I can live the rituals of every day, having the pleasure of feeling that the house is perfect in every detail.”
Designing for Community and Connection
Cibic’s work extends beyond interiors to architecture and community-focused design. His journey in China began in 2003 during a design workshop at Tongji University. Here, he collaborated with students to create a project for Paola C., an Italian tableware company. This experience culminated in the “Shanghai Made in Italy” exhibition at Milano Design Week. It brought him acclaim and an honorary professorship at Tongji.
His work centres on the idea that communities and residents are vital sources of innovation in cities. By integrating universities, local knowledge, and talent, Cibic believes in creating a “chemical reaction” that leads to new experiences and solutions. This philosophy aligns with his lifestyle in Anshan Wu Cun, where he has fully immersed himself in the local culture.
Aldo Cibic’s Legacy of Humble Creativity
Cibic’s decision to embrace a humble life in Shanghai reflects his dedication to authenticity and meaningful design. He has found joy in simplicity, proving creativity thrives in thoughtful spaces rather than opulent surroundings. His small apartment is a testament to his belief that great design is not about extravagance. It is about creating environments that bring comfort, connection, and beauty to everyday life.
Cibic inspires designers, architects, and communities worldwide through his work and lifestyle, reminding us that sometimes, less truly is more.
Sources
OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT (January 31, 2025) [Large language model]. OpenAI. https://openai.com/chatgpt
Shine. (2021, April 23). Aldo Cibic’s Shanghai apartment transformation: An infusion of Italian design and local elements. Shine.cn. https://www.shine.cn/feature/lifestyle/2104237874/
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