Home UpShanghai: Citta di Pujiang

An Italian city in Shanghai? But of course: this is another of Shanghai's new towns, in this case copying Venice.

Under construction.

Here's what's on offer: houses on water.

Like Thames Town, Citta di Pujiang has been designed by a competition winner, in this case Gregotti Associates International.

The plan is for a city of 80,000, although few will live canal-side.

A more traditionally Italian element: public parks.

Only the most expensive homes face the water.

Yes, President Ciampi came, but only for a few minutes that morning.

So are we ready for a tour?

Permission, permission, permission.

First glimpse.

A commercial square, nearing completion in February, 2007.

Behind it, ponds.

Canal-side house.

Water moving slowly between houses.

Tiny channels, too.

Display home from the outside.

Just inside that wall, a sunken patio with pond.

Living room.

Bedroom fronting sunken patio.

Dining.

Kitchen: nice but tight.

Landing.

Master bath. Ready to sign on the dotted line?