SM Megamall has grown so much more with the addition of the Mega Atrium, an exciting new lifestyle area in the Ortigas Center.

This niche mall within the iconic SM Megamall is on Julia Vargas Avenue, and fully bridges the gap between Mega A and B. It has 16,000 square meters and has four levels.

With Megamall being a linear development that spans more than half a kilometer, the Mega Atrium is envisioned to be a center of respite and relaxation. Its strategic central location provides a convenient stop for mall visitors to relax and literally catch their breath while enjoying shopping at its upmarket stores and dining at specialty restaurants.

Upscale retail shops and restaurants are planned around a circular atrium with an area of 452 sq m. Access to the center is to offer an air of drama and surprise. Off the existing bridgeway, the visitor approaches the center through a low-ceiling hallway that widens toward a cyclindrical skylight.

Dynamic nonconcentric circles on the floor are achieved with the application of yellow tiles of varied hues. An equally dynamic skylight design matches these circles on the floor. The curved patterns ripple out beyond the atrium area on both floors and ceiling to great consistency and harmony to the general look of the center.

The fifth level of the Mega Atrium is the new site of the 1, 700-sq m Chapel of the Eucharistic Lord. Designed by architect Gervacio ‘Joey’ Amistoso, the grand chapel has a modern architectural concept with the Eucharist as the focal point in the retablo or altar, with the crucified Christ in the middle. The retablo is neoclassical design, which contrasts with the modern theme of the rest of the chapel.

The color scheme of the area is earthinspired, using neutrals like beige and brown. Finishes are similar to those of stones used during the Romans’ times, which gives the chapel a structurally sound impression, but in a soft and warm approach. Wood in its natural oil finish is the most common material, which is used in the chapel. The Chapel of the Eucharistic Lord also has a separate Adoration Chapel and Children’s Room.

The Mega Atrium is an exciting addition to the 330,000-sq-m SM Megamall, one of the world’s largest malls. Megamall, which opened in 1991, is said to have spearheaded what is termed in malling phenomenon with its size, world-class designs, and new concepts, including the Artwalk and Art Center and Megatrade Hall. The Atrium adds an upscale vibe to the mall.

The Mega Atrium design team includes Arquitectonica, mall designer; W.V.Coscolluela and Associates, architects; Monolith Construction and Development Corp., general contractor; and DA Abcede and Associates, project manager.

AN equally dynamic skylight design matches the nonconcentric circles in the floor of the Mega Atrium.