The Mega Atrium Lifestyle

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 located over 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 square meters. 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 towards a cyclindrical skylight.

Dynamic non-concentric circles on the floor are achieved with the application of yellow tiles of varied hues. An equally dynamic skylight design matches the non-concentric 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 square meter 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 neo-classical design, which contrasts with the modern theme of the rest of the chapel.

The color scheme of the area is earth inspired 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 square meter SM Megamall, one of the world’s largest malls. Megamall, which opened in 1991, is said of 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.