Revamped alley brings new life to local commerce

In Lijiahuayuan Lane, located in Ningyang county in Tai'an, Shandong province, a plethora of distinctive small shops have emerged, focusing on dining, handicrafts, and cultural creative products. The once dilapidated alley now teems with life and commerce.

"I leased half a courtyard from residents, conducted simple renovations, and now attract around 20 to 30 customers daily. I opened my shop about a year and a half ago," said Yu Hai, proprietor of a creative handicraft workshop.

Yu Hai teaches a couple how to craft couple rings themselves. [Photo by Xu Peng/For chinadaily.com.cn]

The majority of residential houses in Lijiahuayuan Lane were constructed in the 1990s. In recent years, as residents gradually relocate, the vacancy rate of homes has steadily risen. In a divergence from conventional demolition practices, Lijiahuayuan Lane has undergone a holistic revamping of old residential buildings. While preserving the original architectural framework and distinct features, modern amenities and functional zones have been integrated. Presently, out of the 112 residential courtyards in Lijiahuayuan Lane, 90 have tenants, with nearly 40 serving commercial purposes. This initiative not only augments economic gains for the original residents but also upholds social and environmental benefits.

Two customers engage in a conversation about painting techniques for plaster dolls. [Photo by Xu Peng/For chinadaily.com.cn]

"The overall ambiance has significantly improved, and we old-timers find living here quite comfortable," said an elderly denizen of Lijiahuayuan Lane. (Edited by Du Xiaping)