There’s a new mall in Singapore with an open-air shopping concept, pet-friendly features and an extensive list of F&B establishments for the discerning customer. Meet One Holland Village Mall. Opened on December 1, 2023, it is the newest addition to the trendy hub of Holland Village. According to Marc Boey, executive director of property services at Far East Organisation and chief operating officer at Far East International, One Holland Village is a mixed-use development by joint-ven
nt-venture partners Sekisui House Limited, Sino Group and Far East Organisation.
“Through a curated selection of upscale homes, offices, retail, dining and community spaces, it is designed to offer connectivity, convenience and community at a trendy Holland Village address,” he told Inside Retail.
Taking inspiration from neighbourhoods like London’s Shoreditch and Notting Hill, Daikanyama and Omotesando in Tokyo as well as the West Village and Brooklyn in New York, Boey said that One Holland Village extends the distinctive cool vibes from Holland Village and Chip Bee Gardens into its development.
“The design of One Holland Village was meticulously crafted to prioritise a positive user experience, envisioning it as a well-shaded, accessible and inclusive destination with a distinctive vibe,” he added.
Designed to be in a park-like setting, One Holland Village mall stands out for its seamless integration of pet-friendly features into retail space, creating a dynamic outdoor environment for pet owners.
“The mall prioritises pet walkability through strategically located leash hooks, lift access, and pet drinking fountains ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for both animals and pawrents,” he noted.
Boey reiterated that sustainability was a key aspect of the project, and said the Far East Organisation supports sustainable development and respect for the environment through initiatives such as the greening of building facades and public spaces.
“Complemented by the centrally situated Village Square, alfresco dining areas, pocket park, and features such as EV charging stations and bicycle parking, the mall is committed to promoting environmentally responsible practices within this modern urban development,” he said.
Retail is evolving
Deborah Tan, director of the retail business group at Far East Organisation, chimed in by saying that the retail landscape is dynamic and ever changing.
“To cater to the evolving desires of shoppers, we must stay attuned to emerging consumer trends, consistently refining our tenant mix with vibrant and relevant retail concepts, to offer our customers fresh and diverse experiences,” she told Inside Retail.
She went on to say that in shaping the identity of One Holland Village mall, the team carefully considered the characteristics and demographics of the residents in this precinct.
“Drawing insights from research reports, we identified several upward trends, particularly in food and beverages, wellness, pet ownership, and the arts. In harmony with these pivotal trends, One Holland Village mall is purposefully designed to provide experiences grounded in these areas, from architectural design to public art, tenant mix and overall retail experiences,” she added.
Interestingly, Tan said that the mall’s commitment to creating a pet-friendly environment goes beyond mere accommodation.
“We want to foster a welcoming and inclusive space where visitors can seamlessly combine their shopping and dining activities with quality time spent alongside their beloved companions,” she said.
Currently, around 20 tenants have taken steps to welcome pets into their stores. To easily identify these pet-friendly establishments, distinctive labels have been placed at the entrance of these outlets.
“This includes Plain Meredith, the first pet café concept operated by Baker’s Brew, who extends a warm welcome to pets and their owners for a delightful dine-in experience. Several tenants like Extra Virgin Pizza, and restaurants Fireplace and Ginkyo offer alfresco dining areas, a charming setting where both pets and their owners can relish their meals,” she noted.
With the opening of all 90 tenants in the coming months, ‘pawrents’ will also be able to shop at Fur A Vetreska Pet Store, a pioneering China-based pet services and accessories shop that will debut its first physical retail store in Singapore.
Shoppers can also expect Surrey Hills Grocer to open its flagship outlet at One Holland Village mall together with its dedicated pet grocer, Furry Hills. In addition, Sourbombe Bakery will bring in special pet treats, a first at their store and only at One Holland Village.
Far East Organisation’s retail arm now oversees 19 malls and retail properties in Singapore, including the latest One Holland Village Mall.
“Looking ahead, our 20th mall, Bukit V, is on the horizon. Forming the retail component of our mixed-use development integrated with The Reserve Residences, serviced residences and bus interchange, Bukit V is strategically located in the heart of Bukit Timah,” Tan noted.
She said this upcoming mall is expected to be completed in 2027, with the rest of development slated to obtain its Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) in 2028.
Tan said Bukit V represents its ongoing commitment to innovative and community-centric urban developments.