SM Prime Holdings, Inc. President Hans T. Sy (second from left) led SM Southmall’s recent re-launch, which coincided with the unveiling of its Christmas centerpiece. He is shown at the Santa Claus showcase with (from left) Regional Operations manager Lorenz Calingasan, Santa Claus himself, vice president for Leasing Daisy Chua, vice president for Premier Malls Steven Tan, and SM Supermalls executive vice president for Operations-South Glenn Ang.

Christmas came early to SM Southmall in a double celebration – its re- launching as a new premier mall, and the unveiling of its Christmas centerpiece.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. president Hans T. Sy led the ceremonial toast that marked SM Southmall’s transformation into a new, impressive premier mall in Manila’s South.

With its new direction comes Southmall’s new look, new set of upscale tenants, and exciting new concepts like the Food Street, a 250 – meter row of al fresco restaurants. SM Southmall first opened in 1995, and today, the 205,000 square meter mall has been redesigned to serve a new generation of shoppers.

New, contemporary architectural elements have been incorporated to provide a strong, unique identity for the SM Southmall building. Corners of the façade have been wrapped with circular feature panels to create a dynamic visual focus to the building, making it a landmark in the area.

The mall’s interiors reveal a bright, fresh retail space inspired by natural aspects – timber slatted textures on the void edges, as well as olive green pops of color coming through the floor finishes and graphic elements. A continuous ribbon, in champagne metallic finish, wraps and weaves around every shop front creating a continuous harmonious design element that not only integrates the mall but also provides a portal to identify each store façade.

The High Bay section, aptly called because of its high ceiling, which creates an impression of hugeness, are for shoppers. Warm neutral floor finishes in bold, contemporary patterns have been used to compliment the environment, while skylight illuminates the space with natural light, creating an airy, bright ambience for smart fashion shoppers.

The mall opens up at the rear to reveal the al fresco Food Street. White sail canopies extend over the al fresco dining area, letting diners enjoy this bright, naturally illuminated space while protecting them from the elements.

Natural textured materials, such as stone and timber provide the space with an upscale, inviting outdoor environment enhanced by a lush tropical garden and an illuminated LED fountain.