Shanghai Shikumen cultural and creative product design based on design thinking

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is to design cultural and creative product in globalization by using the method of design thinking on Shanghai Shikumen culture. Nowadays culture is a core element in enhancing the city’s attractiveness, competitiveness, influence and soft power. As an international metropolis that plays an important role in the Belt and Road initiative, Shanghai urgently needs to develop its cultural industries and promotes the development of cultural creativity. Shikumen, as a traditional residential area combining Western and Chinese elements in Shanghai, is a microcosm of Shanghai modern history and culture. Shikumen remains in the memory of the old Shanghai people. And it is also a model of East-West cultural integration. Shanghai Shikumen culture is studied in this paper. The paper consisted of the following steps: (1) Exploring the history of Shikumen origin by means of literature review, and refining its intrinsic culture and emotional elements. (2) Defining the target population by making field visits and on-site interviews. (3) Designing related cultural and creative product making use of Design Thinking based on the real needs of consumers. And eventually Shikumen culture can be promoted by making related product design. A more distinctive Shanghai cultural image can be created. And it can also help facilitate the cultural exchanges between East and West.