SHANGHAI, Dec. 25 (Xinhua) -- A dilapidated early 18th-century building along the Bund of Shanghai, which once served as a posh club for marine merchants, is now sporting a shiny new look reminiscent of its glory days as renovation work was completed earlier this week.

The iconic structure built in 1715, known as the Commercial Shipping Club, was the largest and most luxurious club in the city that entertained sand-shipping businessmen during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

The restoration project took half a year and was able to maintain the original look and historic features of the building, according to Greenland Holdings Co., Ltd., a major property developer that led the project.

The restoration of the cultural landmark will make Shanghai more culturally attractive, said an official with the city's Huangpu District where the club is located.