Marina Square, a major shopping mall in the Marina Bay area, is set to undergo its biggest transformation in 40 years, with plans for a 49-storey luxury condo and a major mall overhaul. The entire complex, known as Marina Centre, is owned by Singapore property group Singapore Land (SingLand) and its parent company, UOL Group.
The transformation plans were unveiled on September 1, and they include the development of new luxury residences, serviced apartments, and Grade A offices. Marina Square will close its doors for about four years from March 31, 2027, to undergo the renovation and redevelopment.
Marina Centre has been a key part of the Marina Bay area since its completion in 1986. The complex includes three hotels: the Pan Pacific Singapore, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, Singapore, and the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. These hotels have been iconic buildings in Singapore, known for their John Portman architecture.
UOL Group and SingLand have been considering plans to redevelop Marina Centre, given its potential to increase its overall gross floor area (GFA). The recent approval of a GFA uplift under the government’s Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) scheme has enabled the companies to move forward with their plans.
A key part of the transformation plans is the development of a new 49-storey residential tower, which will house 204 large-format luxury homes. The tower will offer prime views of the city skyline and Marina Bay. Additionally, a mixed-use block will be built, featuring a 304-key hotel and a 260-key serviced apartment.
The retail mall will be redesigned to feature experience-led concepts, including food and beverage, sports, wellness, and lifestyle offerings.
The transformation plans also include the development of landscaped terraces and public spaces, which will support community activities and placemaking. A new continuous sheltered walkway and an raised botanical loop will be built to strengthen pedestrian links to nearby areas.
The transformation of Marina Centre is expected to have a significant impact on the Marina Bay area. The development of new luxury residences, serviced apartments, and offices will help to support the growth of the area as a major commercial and residential hub.
The redesign of the retail mall will also help to enhance the area’s appeal as a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The increased pedestrian connectivity and public spaces will make the area more accessible and enjoyable for residents, workers, and visitors.
Jonathan Eu, CEO of SingLand, notes that the transformation plans are about creating a more integrated live-work-play ecosystem in the Marina Bay area. By bringing together different uses and activities, the company aims to create a more connected community.
For people who will be living and working in the area, the transformation of Marina Centre will likely mean a more convenient and enjoyable living and working experience, with a wider range of amenities and services available.
Marina Square will shut its doors after March 31, 2027, as it undergoes a renovation.
The three existing hotels at Marina Centre will remain operational and unaffected by the redevelopment plans. They will continue to offer their usual range of services and amenities to guests.
The transformation of Marina Centre is just one part of a larger series of developments in the Marina Bay area. Other projects, such as the construction of the fourth tower of Marina Bay Sands, are also underway. The area is expected to continue to grow and evolve in the coming years, with a range of new developments and amenities being added, including commercial electrical solutions for businesses.