MANILA, Philippines — SM Prime Holdings Inc. announced a ₱7-billion redevelopment project that will transform SM Megamall in Mandaluyong into a modern, energy-efficient shopping center inspired by the Philippines’ natural beauty.
The redevelopment will be finished by 2029 at the latest and will be led by Benoy, a well-known architectural firm from the United Kingdom.
Benoy has worked on many famous projects worldwide, including Singapore’s Changi Airport Terminal 4 and Jewel, ION Orchard, Oceanarium, ICONSIAM in Thailand, the London College of Fashion, the Nottingham Forest football stadium, and the international airports of South Korea and Bahrain.
In the Philippines, Benoy also redesigned SM Aura’s food court in Taguig, now called Food on Four.
For SM Megamall’s redevelopment, Benoy will provide architecture, retail planning, interior design, wayfinding & signage, and landscape design services. The project covers 87,207 square meters of space, with 20,000 square meters dedicated to leasable areas, themed retail zones, and mobility features for easier access.
Crystal Islands Theme
The redesign will feature a “Crystal Islands” theme, blending nature with modern retail spaces. The goal is to create a mall that looks beautiful, feels connected to nature, and gives shoppers a unique experience.
Highlights of the redesign include:
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Vibrant landscaping, modern architecture, and stylish interiors.
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An elevated garden on the top floor called Level 5 Garden, described as an “air-conditioned oasis” with tropical plants, dining areas, and comfortable seating for social gatherings.
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Sustainability features like low-maintenance plants and a self-sustaining irrigation system to lessen environmental impact.
Green and Energy-Saving Features
The new Megamall will include:
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A rainwater harvesting system with a 500-cubic-meter capacity.
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Upgraded mechanical systems to lower energy use.
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ETFE roofing, skylights, and clerestory windows to let in natural light and reduce cooling costs.
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Energy-efficient LED lighting and sensor-activated escalators, which can save up to 50% and 30% energy respectively.
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Possible installation of solar panels under SM Prime’s carbon reduction program.
Other Upgrades
The redevelopment also includes:
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A four-level basement parking with over 1,600 slots.
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Wider walkways, taller ceilings, and expanded corridors for better circulation.
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Modernized vertical transport such as escalators and elevators.
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Relocated cinemas, a new Megatrade Hall, redesigned food court, and improved common areas and restrooms.
Phased Construction
The project will be done in phases, with the mall divided into three zones:
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Emerald Island
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Sapphire Island
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Rhodolite Island
Each zone will have its own unique colors and materials for a unified design.
SM Supermalls president Steven Tan admitted that temporarily closing parts of the mall for the project would be difficult because Megamall generates high revenue. But he said the redevelopment is needed to ensure long-term sustainability.
Tan added that SM Megamall has the highest sales per square meter among all SM malls and that many businesses are already on the waiting list for space.
According to Benoy, the redevelopment will use a holistic design approach, ensuring smooth navigation across architecture, interiors, landscapes, and signage. The firm said the project will set a new standard for integrated retail design in the region.
