Ever wondered what it feels like to step into a time capsule? i12 Katong invites you to do just that.
Right here before us stands i12 Katong a seven-storey shopping mall. It’s not just a place to shop. It’s a living testament to Katong’s rich history. Originally built in 1983 as Katong People’s Complex it had a rather unique exterior. People said it resembled a prison with its exposed blue pipes. Imagine that. A shopping mall looking like a prison.
Then in 1995 it underwent a makeover. It was renamed Katong Mall. A Cold Storage supermarket replaced the old department store. Education centers filled the upper floors. The basements housed an electronics store and other shops. This wasn’t just a renovation. This was a transformation.
Fast forward to 2009. Bad business led to a major change. Pua Seck Guan a former CapitaLand executive purchased Katong Mall for a whopping $247.55 million. A private trust Perennial Katong Retail Trust took over. The mall closed in 2010 for a complete revamp.
When it reopened in late 2011 it was reborn as i12 Katong. This time it showcased a vibrant Peranakan theme reflecting the area’s heritage. There was a Golden Village cinema a Food Republic food court. A gourmet Cold Storage supermarket and over 150 shops completed the scene. Even a wet and dry playground graced the fourth floor.
In 2016 Keppel Land acquired a significant stake in the mall. They announced plans to transform the fourth floor play area into an alfresco dining zone. A non-profit was also to find a place here. Keppel Land eventually became the sole owner.
The mall closed again in March 2020. This time for extensive renovations to recapture Katong’s charm. It reopened in December 2021 with a modern look. The Peranakan theme was gone. Instead i12 Katong now focuses on current trends. New tenants arrived bringing fresh energy and new experiences. There are even electric vehicle chargers and an urban farm now. The food waste is even recycled.
This building isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a story. It’s a living breathing reflection of Katong’s vibrant past and exciting future. Step inside i12 Katong and experience it for yourself. The story continues to unfold within its walls.