VivoCity... Singapore's New Shopping Attraction

Just like its tourism tagline, Singapore is always surprising and unpredictable.

The city-state renowned for its shopping paradise status now welcomes you to their latest shopping and lifestyle attraction, VivoCity. With gross floor area of 1.5 million sqft. and costs a whopping S$292 million by Mapletree Investments Pte Ltd, the shopping complex is touted to be the biggest in Singapore and probably in Asia.

The name itself, which was derived from the word "Vivacity" evokes a modern and stimulating lifestyle experience that is accessible to everyone. The architecture was created by internationally-acclaimed Japanese architect Toyo Ito who was the genius behind the Sendai Mediatheque in Japan. Focusing on the utilization of nature, climate and open spaces as his signature style in designing, the VivoCity project was his first major architectural feat outside Japan in Asia.

VivoCity's iconic yet outstanding design which sets it apart from the conventional box format that is common among retail development around the region is designed based on the "Surfing" theme and inspired by the harbor at the development's front location, which evokes the image of sea waves.

“I wanted to create a fluid shopping enjoyment where one space leads intuitively into another,” explained Mr. Ito. “This structure does not separate the space by floor, but is connected as one continuous experience.”

With a broad selection of stores and entertainment, one can be lost in this gargantuan VivoCity due to the tempting attractions. If you're a chic shopaholic who frequently stocks your Hermes scarves and Prada bags season after season, take note that VivoCity is NOT the place for you.

Instead of high-end names, one can expect the high street labels like the Spanish-based Zara, Mango and Pull and Bear, and GAP; Asian contemporary designers such as Celia Loe, Samuel and Kevin, Spade and Charles and Keith; women's staples of Liz Claiborne, La Senza and Joop, as well as a Sunglass Hut outlet.

For entertainment, you can choose either to indulge on new and upcoming movies at the Golden Village VivoCity, which is by far the largest multiplex in the city-state, spelunking at one of the mall's four, yes, FOUR Olympic-sized swimming pools at the sky parks located on the rooftop or revived your childhood days at the open-air playground with interactive water features. For dining, you can have yours either al fresco (outdoor) or indoors. Singapore's first Chicken Rice Shop is located here, at the VivoCity.

So, should you be in the Lion City for working or leisure reasons, don't forget to make your maiden visit to this gigantic lifestyle and shopping center of Singapore.

*Photos courtesy of Wikipedia.

VivoCity - 1, HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585