Discover Bedok Mall: Your Ultimate Guide in Singapore
Welcome to our guide on Bedok Mall, a shopping destination that’s become a cornerstone of Singapore’s East Coast. We’ve explored every nook and cranny of this vibrant mall to bring you the ultimate insider’s perspective. From its wide array of stores to its family-friendly features, Bedok Mall has something for everyone, and we’re excited to share our findings with you.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the history and development of Bedok Mall, highlighting how it has transformed the area. We’ll also reveal our top picks for stores you shouldn’t miss and delve into the mall’s family-oriented amenities. Plus, we’ll give you the scoop on seasonal events and promotions that make Bedok Mall a year-round attraction. Don’t forget to check out our recommendations for Bedok Mall food options that’ll satisfy any craving.
History and Development of Bedok Mall
Origins
Bedok Mall has its roots in Singapore’s urban planning efforts to address housing needs and create vibrant communities. In the 1960s, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) began developing large-scale public housing towns across the island. Bedok New Town, which started development in the 1970s, was one of these towns. The name “Bedok” comes from a Malay term for a riverine fishing boat, reflecting the area’s historical connection to the sea.
The town was designed to integrate housing, amenities, and services, providing residents with opportunities to live, work, and play within their community. Following HDB’s town planning principles, Bedok Town Center was built in the late 1970s as the heart of the town, featuring essential facilities like a bus interchange, MRT station, hawker center, and shops.
Architectural Design
As part of Singapore’s efforts to rejuvenate older public housing towns, Bedok was selected for the ‘Remaking Our Heartland’ (ROH) program in 2011. This initiative aimed to enhance the town’s physical environment, improve accessibility, and showcase its rich culture and heritage.
The development of Bedok Mall was a key component of this rejuvenation effort. The mall’s design integrates seamlessly with the surrounding area, creating a cohesive and user-friendly space. Its architecture reflects modern design principles while paying homage to Bedok’s history. The undulating facade of the commercial development subtly references Bedok’s historical proximity to the sea, before extensive land reclamation pushed the shoreline further out.
Bedok Mall is part of a larger integrated development that includes Bedok Residences and the Bedok Integrated Bus Interchange. This mixed-use complex stacks three different programs vertically, offering urban amenities and seamless connectivity within a single address. The development’s design prioritizes accessibility and user-friendliness, with features like ramped pathways, covered walkways, and direct connections to public transportation.
Impact on the Neighborhood
The introduction of Bedok Mall has had a significant impact on the surrounding neighborhood. As the first major shopping mall in the area, it has brought a new level of retail and dining options to Bedok residents. The mall houses over 200 shops across three floors, providing a diverse range of choices for shoppers.
The development has also improved connectivity in the area. With direct connections to the Bedok MRT station and bus interchange, the mall has become a central hub for transportation and commerce. This integration has made it easier for residents to access public transportation and essential services.
Moreover, the mall’s presence has contributed to the overall rejuvenation of Bedok Town Center. It has created a new focal point for community life, complemented by the adjacent Bedok Town Square, which serves as a venue for various community events and activities.
The impact of Bedok Mall extends beyond just shopping and dining. Its development has had a positive effect on property values in the area. Some residents have reported significant increases in the value of their homes since the mall’s opening.
While the mall has brought many benefits, it has also presented challenges for some existing businesses in the area. Smaller shopping centers and individual shops have had to adapt to increased competition. However, the overall effect has been a revitalization of Bedok’s commercial landscape, bringing new energy and opportunities to this well-established neighborhood.
Top Stores to Visit
Anchor Tenants
When visiting Bedok Mall, you can’t miss the anchor tenants that form the backbone of this shopping destination. FairPrice Finest, located on the second basement level, is a go-to spot for groceries and daily necessities. This supermarket offers a wide range of products, making it convenient for locals and visitors alike to stock up on essentials.
Another key anchor tenant is Best Denki, which occupies a spacious area on the first basement level. Here, you’ll find an extensive selection of electronics and home appliances. Whether you’re in the market for a new smartphone or looking to upgrade your kitchen gadgets, Best Denki has got you covered.
Uniqlo, a popular fashion retailer, rounds out the trio of anchor tenants. Located on the first basement level, Uniqlo offers trendy and affordable clothing options for the whole family.
Popular Brands
Bedok Mall houses a variety of well-known brands that cater to different tastes and needs. Fashion enthusiasts will appreciate stores like Cotton On, Bossini, and Giordano. These outlets offer casual wear and accessories that suit Singapore’s tropical climate.
For those interested in beauty and wellness, the mall features popular brands such as Innisfree, The Body Shop, and Watsons. These stores provide a range of skincare, cosmetics, and personal care products to help you look and feel your best.
Tech-savvy shoppers will find familiar names like Samsung, iStudio, and Challenger Mobile. These stores offer the latest gadgets and accessories to keep you connected and entertained.
Unique Local Shops
While Bedok Mall hosts many well-known international brands, it also showcases some unique local shops that add character to the shopping experience. UrbanWrite, for instance, is a stylish lifestyle store that offers a wide range of products including character merchandise, fancy stationery, and travel accessories. It’s an excellent spot to find quirky gifts or treat yourself to some creative inspiration.
Another local gem is POPULAR Bookstore, which provides an extensive selection of books, stationery, and educational materials. It’s a great place to browse for your next read or stock up on school supplies.
For those interested in traditional Chinese medicine and wellness products, Eu Yan Sang offers a range of herbal remedies and health supplements. This long-standing local brand brings a touch of Singapore’s rich cultural heritage to the modern shopping mall environment.
Bedok Mall’s mix of anchor tenants, popular brands, and unique local shops creates a diverse shopping experience that caters to a wide range of needs and interests. Whether you’re looking for everyday essentials or searching for something special, you’re likely to find it among the stores at Bedok Mall.
Family-Friendly Features
At Bedok Mall, we’ve gone the extra mile to ensure that families have a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience. Our family-friendly features cater to parents and children alike, making it a go-to destination for families in Singapore’s East Coast.
Kids’ Play Areas
One of the highlights for families visiting Bedok Mall is our dedicated kids’ play area. Located at #B1-20, this indoor playground is a haven for children looking to have some fun while their parents shop or take a break. The play area is designed with safety in mind, featuring padded surfaces and age-appropriate equipment. It’s the perfect spot for kids to burn off some energy and make new friends.
Family Restrooms
We understand the importance of convenient facilities for families with young children. That’s why we’ve installed family restrooms on every level of Bedok Mall, including B1, B2, and Level 1. These spacious rooms are equipped with both adult and child-sized toilets, making it easier for parents to assist their little ones. Each family restroom also includes a fold-down changing station with raised edges for safety, and a baby seat for parents who need to tend to multiple children at once.
Our family restrooms are designed with convenience in mind. The doors are electronic, with a handy light indicator to show whether the room is occupied or available. While we’re always working on improvements, we’re proud to offer these facilities that are superior to many other malls in Singapore.
Child-Friendly Dining Options
When it comes to feeding hungry families, Bedok Mall has plenty of options. We’ve carefully selected a range of restaurants and cafes that cater to both adult and child palates. Many of our eateries offer kids’ menus, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will find something they enjoy.
For parents looking for healthier options, we have several restaurants that go beyond the standard nuggets and chips, offering nutritious meals that kids will love. Our food court also provides a variety of choices, making it easy for families with diverse tastes to dine together.
We’ve also made sure that our dining areas are equipped with high chairs and booster seats, making mealtimes more comfortable for families with young children. Some of our restaurants even have small play areas or activity sheets to keep kids entertained while waiting for their food.
At Bedok Mall, we believe that shopping and dining should be a pleasant experience for the whole family. Our family-friendly features are designed to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible, whether you’re here for a quick errand or a full day of shopping and entertainment.
Seasonal Events and Promotions
At Bedok Mall, we’re always looking for ways to make your shopping experience more exciting and rewarding. Throughout the year, we host a variety of seasonal events and offer attractive promotions that keep our visitors coming back for more.
Holiday Celebrations
During festive seasons, Bedok Mall transforms into a hub of holiday cheer. For instance, during Christmas, we deck the halls with festive decorations and create a magical atmosphere for shoppers. Toast Box, one of our popular eateries, gets into the spirit by offering special holiday-themed treats. Their Winter Cherry Butter toast, topped with coconut shavings, brings a taste of Mount Fuji to Singapore, while the Jolly Kopi Brownie captures the essence of London with its festive decorations.
Sales and Discounts
We’re committed to providing value to our shoppers, and our sales and discounts are a testament to that. For example, Bata offers a 20% discount on the second item purchased, making it easier for families to shop for footwear. Our food outlets also join in with tempting offers. Swensen’s, a favorite among families, has introduced student meal promotions and happy hour deals, making dining out more affordable.
For tech enthusiasts, BEGA stores at Bedok Mall feature exclusive weekly specials, offering great deals on electronics and gadgets. These promotions change regularly, so there’s always something new to look forward to when you visit.
Community Engagement Activities
We believe in fostering a sense of community, and our events reflect this commitment. CapitaLand, our parent company, has initiated ‘The Art of Building Communities’ project, which includes art talks and guided tours. These activities allow visitors to appreciate the unique art pieces displayed in and around Bedok Mall, adding a cultural dimension to your shopping experience.
In collaboration with Mediacorp, we’ve also participated in charitable initiatives like the President’s Challenge. Our mall served as a venue for a “phygital” donation drive, where visitors could contribute to worthy causes while enjoying their shopping experience.
At Bedok Mall, we’re not just about shopping; we’re about creating memorable experiences. Whether you’re here for the holiday celebrations, to snag a great deal, or to participate in community events, there’s always something happening. And of course, with our wide array of dining options, you can always take a break from the excitement to enjoy some delicious Bedok Mall food. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for the latest updates on our seasonal events and promotions – you won’t want to miss out!
Conclusion
Bedok Mall has cemented its place as a go-to shopping destination on Singapore’s East Coast. Its mix of popular stores, family-friendly features, and exciting events has a big impact on the local community. The mall’s seamless integration with public transport and its focus on meeting diverse needs make it more than just a place to shop – it’s a hub for daily life in Bedok.
To wrap up, Bedok Mall offers something for everyone. Whether you’re there to grab groceries, enjoy a meal, or spend a day out with the family, you’ll find plenty to keep you engaged. As the mall continues to evolve, it’s sure to remain a key part of Bedok’s vibrant neighborhood scene, bringing people together and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.