Tiong Bahru Plaza
A Jewel in Singapore's Urban Tapestry
Nestled in the heart of the Tiong Bahru estate, known for its rich local heritage, Tiong Bahru Plaza stands as a beacon of modernity and convenience. Since its inception in 1994, the Plaza has grown and evolved, mirroring the dynamic nature of Singapore itself.
Historical Overview
Developed by UOL Limited, Tiong Bahru Plaza, along with the adjacent Central Plaza office tower, was completed in late 1994. This marked the first foray into modern retail within the Tiong Bahru and Bukit Merah neighborhoods. Initially, it featured typical amenities of a suburban mall, including a cinema, a department store, a supermarket, a food court, and over 100 specialty shops.
Evolution and Renovation
Throughout the years, Tiong Bahru Plaza has seen several phases of transformation. In 2005, significant renovations included converting Basement 1 into retail space and enhancing connectivity to the Tiong Bahru MRT station. A major revamp in 2015, with a $90 million investment, completely overhauled the mall’s external façade, increased retail space, and better integrated it with the office tower and MRT entrance.
In August 2015, the mall temporarily closed for these extensive renovation works and reopened in March 2016, revealing an upgraded playground on the 3rd floor, new retail concepts like Golden Village and Uniqlo, and an outdoor plaza for events.
Recent Developments
As of 2019, Tiong Bahru Plaza continued to innovate its retail landscape, with Sushiro opening its first store in August and Daiso joining the retail mix.
Connectivity and Accessibility
One of Tiong Bahru Plaza's strengths lies in its excellent connectivity. Directly linked to the Tiong Bahru MRT station on the East-West line and serviced by numerous bus routes, it is a convenient hub for both residents and visitors.
Retail and Dining Mix
The mall offers a diverse range of retail, grocery, entertainment, and F&B options, catering to a wide demographic. Key retailers include FairPrice Finest and Uniqlo, while dining options range from local delights at Kopitiam to international cuisines.
Green Initiatives
In line with Singapore's vision for a sustainable future, Tiong Bahru Plaza is proud to be awarded the BCA Green Mark Platinum certification, recognizing its environmentally friendly features.
Key Statistics
- Net Lettable Area: 19,953 square meters (214,769 square feet)
- Annual Shopper Traffic: 13.4 million (Oct 2021 – Sept 2022)
- Property Owner: Frasers Centrepoint Trust (FCT)
- Year Acquired by FCT: 2020
- Title: 99-year leasehold from 1 September 1991
Tiong Bahru Plaza is more than just a shopping destination; it is a vital part of the community, blending seamlessly with the unique character of the Tiong Bahru estate. With its thoughtful design, diverse offerings, and commitment to sustainability, it continues to be a cherished landmark in Singapore's urban landscape.