There’re several new malls opening this season on Orchard Road and yesterday we went and have a look at the first one. All these malls are build on the south side of Orchard Road, where other enormous malls like Ngee Ann City or also known as Takashimaya Shopping Centre are located. Construction of 4 of these malls roughly started 12 months ago when we arrived in Singapore. The first one is kind of open (stores are still being build, but the building is open to public), the other 2 are set to be opened in the next few months. No signs of the credit crisis on Singapore’s main shopping street.

Orchard Central is a very impressive mall across the street from Centrepoint. I remember this being under construction for as long as we’re in Singapore, because the headquarters of my employer used to be around the corner. With only a few retail outlets opened, it’s a little confusing and you easily get lost. It’s supposed to be the first “vertical” mall in the world, making use of the valuable space on Orchard Road, but building high up. And by surprise we found this multi-story climbing wall in the middle of the mall, very unique but very fitting in a vertical mall. The roof will feature a garden and fine dining. I am sure I’ll be back once all occupants have moved in.

The next one to open is probably ION on Orchard further down on Orchard across The Marriott Hotel, which will be even bigger than Ngee Ann City and will become Singapore’s biggest mall. It will house several flagship stores from the bigger and more expensive fashion labels and there’re be an residence tower with observation deck, an art gallery and large square. It looks absolutely spectacular from the outside and I am sure I’ll be posting some pictures in the future when both these malls are completely finished. ION will definitely become the icon on Orchard.

Towards the end of the year 313@Somerset and Mandarin Gallery will also open.