In an age where online shopping is just a click away, staying relevant as a brick-and-mortar mall takes more than new shops and promotions. For City Square Mall (CSM), the answer lies in reimagining what a mall can be, not just a place to shop, but a vibrant “third space” for the community with features like the CDL EcoTrain, a climate education hub in a repurposed train carriage.

Marking its 17th year, the mall near Farrer Park MRT has undergone a $50 million refurbishment that began in September 2023. Owned and managed by City Developments Limited (CDL), the revamp focuses on refreshing spaces, curating experiences and strengthening its role as a community hub.

A Fresh Look and a New Food Scene

One of the most noticeable changes is the transformed atrium spanning Levels 2 to 4. Once square and functional, it now features flowing curves and layered forms that bring visual interest and a sense of movement through the space. These newly carved zones are home to an updated tenant mix, including new food and beverage concepts.

Food lovers will also notice a major shift in the mall’s dining landscape. The former Level 4 foodcourt has moved to Basement 3, making way for Gastro Square—a 24,000 square feet (sq ft) upscale food “neighbourhood”. The line-up includes the first mall outlet of Kok Sen Restaurant, a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient and beloved local zi char institution.

CSM has long been known as a family-friendly destination, and the upgrade doubles down on that appeal. In addition to popular attractions like Airzone, the suspended net playground, new concepts such as Giggle Jungle by Yooland introduce immersive, jungle-themed play experiences for children.

The “third space” idea also extends outdoors. Next to the playground sits the CDL EcoTrain—a decommissioned SMRT train cabin reimagined as a climate education hub. Far from being just a novelty, the space houses interactive exhibits and hosts workshops on sustainability and climate issues. These programmes are co-created with Just Keep Thinking, Singapore’s largest science, nature and sustainability social media platform, and are designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Sustainability Woven into Everyday Design

While the mall’s refreshed look feels contemporary, sustainability remains central to its identity. Since opening in 2009 as Singapore’s first eco-mall, CSM has integrated green thinking into its design, from a roof that maximises natural light to water recycling systems that reportedly saved the equivalent of eight Olympic-size pools during construction.

The recent upgrade builds on this foundation with energy-efficient lighting, improved ventilation and smarter building controls. But sustainability here is also something shoppers can see and touch. Working with local architecture and design firm Ta.Le, the refurbishment incorporates extensive upcycling and adaptive reuse throughout the mall.

More than 1.4km of timber grab bars from the original mall have been transformed into benches and wall cladding, preserving a sense of continuity while reducing construction waste. Elsewhere, everyday materials take on new life: bamboo chopsticks, milk bottle caps and even bubble wrap have been reworked into design features.

A Mall That Grows with Its Community

Today, CSM spans close to 730,000 sq ft and offers more than just retail. With refreshed spaces, a stronger dining scene, family-friendly attractions and thoughtful design details, it positions itself as a place to spend quality and educational time.

In doing so, the mall shows how a well-loved, mid-aged shopping centre can evolve with changing lifestyles, staying relevant by becoming part of the community’s everyday rhythm rather than competing head-on with e-commerce.

For more information on the mall’s latest events and promotions, please visit the website.