MALLS ARE NO longer thought of as establishments dedicated solely to shopping and the consumption of goods.

At the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, sports and entertainment merge in the newly opened SM Bowling Center, designed by Australia-based Architects EAT. Apart from having 32 bowling lanes equipped with plasma monitors, the Bowling Center also offers billiards, karaoke, and live sports viewing. Customers can also sample a fusion of culinary delights and drinks at the sports bar, which is operated by the Aruba Bar and Restaurant.

The experience is heightened by the interplay of colors, lights, and graphics. The articulated ceiling of the Bowling Center, for example, is made up of red panels that collectively form a wave -a repeating design motif that is meant to represent sound and motion waves produced by the music, the people, and the bowling balls.

This theme is also evident in the ceilings of the bowling lanes, which create a giant wave flowing towards the large projection screens located at the end of the lanes. At both entrances, circular discs representing bowling balls are suspended at varying levels to catch the attention of passersby. Other design elements to watch out for at the new Bowling Center include large graphics and moving blue lights on the walls.

The lounge feel is bolstered by ergonomic designer furniture, such as sculpted love benches in the main hall and couches that allow bowlers to relax and snack in between games.

The new SM Bowling Center is located at the ground floor of the SM Mall of Asia’s Entertainment Building.