The wave of futuristic malls in Singapore has arrived. First, the Jewel Changi blew away both Singaporeans and the international community with its spectacular architecture and futuristic facilities such as the Rain Vortex.
Next up, we think Funan will give us another glimpse into shopping malls of the future.
Funan, a digital lifestyle mall near City Hall, has been undergoing redevelopment and renovation since its closure in 2016. Before its redevelopment in 2016, the mall was popular among tech enthusiasts and the local gaming community. There were shops selling PCs, gaming accessories and electronic devices. Gaming tournaments also took place regularly.
On June 28 2019, a newly evolved Funan will open its doors to the public. This time bigger and better.
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Tree of Life
The centrepiece of the mall is definitely the Tree of Life. The Tree of Life is a multi-storey retail space where products from other shops will be displayed. Spaces will be available for workshops and classes to be conducted.
At the top of the Tree of Life is a skylight which really gives the impression of a tree reaching for the sky.
Bicycle Hub
One thing missing from the Jewel Changi is definitely an indoor cycling path. Funan is definitely not lacking in this department. There is an indoor path catered to cyclists to ride through the mall. To avoid any accidents, cyclists are encouraged to dismount and push their bicycles during the mall’s operating hours.
There will also be a bicycle hub where riders can freshen up or take a break after riding their bicycle. There are showering facilities, bicycle pumps and repair stations provided. This is definitely a first for malls in Singapore.
Urban Farm
In a bid to cultivate fresh produce, there will be a space for farming. Farmers will be able to grow fresh greens here which chefs from eateries in Funan will be able to use. So imagine eating salad that was only just plucked from the ground!
Kinetic Wall
The Kinetic Wall is a huge screen display that is 13 metres high. It consists of light blades that will align to display the time and date. Certainly gives off the Blade Runner vibes.
The screen is also capable of displaying animations and other visuals.
Fitness
Brompton Junction
The foldable bike maker started out in South Kensington, London all the way back in 1975. The bicycles are made to be easily compact and convenient to carry around. So you won’t have to worry about it being stolen!
A big plus is being able to ride it out the store and trying out on the indoor cycling path (fingers crossed!).
Climb Central
A rock climbing wall in a mall can seem intimidating but Climb Central prides itself on being accessible to beginners and first-timers with easier routes and friendly guides. Never climbed before? Try it out when Funan opens. Rain or shine, you’ll be able to climb.
ARK Futsal
If you lean more towards football than climbing, there’s a rooftop futsal arena in Funan! Take that, Jewel! The ARK currently has 3 pitches in other locations but Funan will be its first pitch in the city area.
Thanks to its location, you’ll be able to have a good view of Singapore’s iconic cityscape.
TFX Fitness
Fitspos rejoice! Another gym will be opening up in town. If you’re working near City Hall, TFX Fitness can be your go-to workout hangout. TFX offers curated personal training packages and also different membership types to best suit your fitness goals.
Entertainment
Golden Village
The Golden Village branch in Funan will feature new Deluxe Plus and Gold Class Express seating options. It will also have seven screens for viewing and their foyers will have Virtual Reality pods.
Wild Rice
Local theatre company WILD RICE will finally have their own designated theatre in Funan after twenty years. The theatre area will include studios and offices which have been designed by an award-winning team. The main theatre will be able to sit 358 people as well.
Tech
DJI
DJI will open its first store in Singapore at Funan. Drone enthusiasts will now easily be able to get their hands on DJI products and accessories in one place.
Dyson
Dyson will set up their first standalone concept store at Funan. The concept store will be focused on their Supersonic hair dryer and Airwrap styler.
GamePro Shop
Funan wouldn’t be complete without a PC shop for all your gaming needs. Game Pro Shop is decked out with the latest gaming accessories and builds. You can shop from well known PC brands like Aftershock, Alienware, Razer, Logitech and more.
Other stores:
- Audio Technica
- Courts
- Authorised Mi Store
- Bose
Fashion
Love, Bonito
The local fashion label will launch its largest physical store at Funan. The third store to its label will have Instagrammable spots and an express counter. On top of that, there will be on-demand stylists at your service!
JD Sports
Looking for fresh clothes before going for rock climbing or playing football in Funan? You can pop by JD Sports for a quick makeover. Drop by if you’re looking to buy good leisure wear from brands like Nike and Adidas as well.
Other stores:
- Fossil
- Casio
- VANS
- Superdry
Food
Tiong Bahru Bakery
Your favourite old school neighbourhood bakery will be opening a branch in Funan. Recommendations include their sourdough and cereal baguette. However, their menu has also included more modern creations like the pandan flan.
Wolf Burgers
Wolf down some burgers at Wolf Burgers. Dig into their Wagyu Beef and King Salmon burgers for reasonable prices. Once you’re done chomping on your burger, wash it down with a chilled beer or even whisky or offered here.
Steak and Sushi
Steak & Sushi will be a new western steakhouse conceptualised by Hot Tomato. As you can tell from the restaurant’s name, there will be premium steak on the menu and curated sushi and sashimi bowls. Sounds like an interesting combination.
Afuri Ramen
AFURI Ramen serves authentic flavourful Japanese ramen which will leave you slurping for more. The menu is uncluttered and fuss-free with classics like shio and shoyu ramen available. If you’re vegan, you can try their seasonal vegan ramen.
Other eateries:
- Avobites
- GOCHABAR
- Tsuta Japanese Soba Noodles
- Fireless Kitchen
Funan may not have international favourites like Shake Shack and A&W but there is certainly a lot to discover and explore. Sorry Jewel, I may have a new favourite mall.
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