Press Releases

Facelift for Paragon to enhance retail experience

Singapore, January 7, 2008 - As part of its continuous efforts to enhance its retail environment and shopping experience for customers, Paragon shopping centre will embark on a $45 million makeover to update its building facade and increase retail space.

The facelift, which will begin in January, is expected to be completed by October 2008. The new look and stronger positioning as an upscale shopping centre will take Paragon to new heights of retail standards. The renovation and higher concentration of sophisticated designer stores are in line with the transformation of Orchard Road into a shopper's paradise for the increasing number of well-heeled international visitors coming to Singapore.

The new, eye-catching three-dimensional facade will comprise multiple transparent, glazed and volumetric external shop-fronts installed above the walkway level.

The current glass and granite facade cladding will make way for a contemporary yet elegant look with the installation of pop-out glass boxes which will reflect an elegant, ethereal lightness. They will be made of multi-faceted layers of aluminium panels and fritted glass with in-built energy-saving LED lights.

The project is undertaken by DP Architects, which also oversaw the successful integration of Paragon and the former Promenade into a single shopping mall in 2003.

In redesigning Paragon's facade, DP Architects aims to create a modern, classy and yet timeless new look, which will reflect its position as a leading shopping centre for international luxury goods in Singapore.

Mrs Linda Kwan, General Manager of Paragon, said: "The design is also prompted by luxury brand retailers looking for more space to expand and build their signature flagship stores and an opportunity to do something different. Paragon's facade, when expanded forward by four metres towards the Orchard Road pedestrian walkway and spanning 115 metres in total length, will provide these tenants with significant visibility and brand expression."

The renovation is also in step with URA's call to building owners to create more interesting and unique building facades to enhance the vibrancy of Orchard Road.

Upon completion, five duplexes of designer stores facing Orchard Road will front the mall and each will see its shop front increase by three times the current height. At the busy intersection of Orchard Road and Bideford Road, a luxury brand's flagship store will enjoy a looming five storeys of shopfront starting from ground floor, providing a dramatic visual interest at this significant landmark junction.

Minor upgrading will also be carried out within the centre, including the addition of new balustrades for a contemporary look. Upon completion of the enhancement works, the nett lettable area at the retail podium will increase by approximately 11,600 square feet.

Expansion of Office and Medical Space

In addition to the facade makeover, the commercial space above Paragon retail podium will be expanded by another 29,000 square feet with the construction of two more floors for medical and office use. Scheduled to be completed by end-2008, this will cost a further $37 million, including the payment of land premium.

The total cost of the facade makeover and the addition of commercial space is $82 million.

During the renovation period, the centre will remain open and operate as per normal. Paragon will minimise any inconvenience as much as possible for the benefit of tenants and shoppers.

Owned by Singapore Press Holdings Ltd through its subsidiary Orchard 290, Paragon is one of the most successful shopping centres in Orchard Road. Apart from enjoying full occupancy, the shopping centre has also won Singapore Retailer Association (SRA) awards for Shopping Centre Scorecard 2007 in two categories - "Best Efforts in Advertising & Promotions" and "Best Efforts in Tenant Relationships" - in 2007

For more information, please contact:

Ms Ina Se
Senior Manager, Advertising & Promotions
Orchard 290 Ltd
DID: 6830 3812
Fax: 6733 1884
Email: ina@paragonsc.com.sg

Issued by Singapore Press Holdings Limited
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