Parañaque mall among world’s ‘Most Beautiful Emporiums’

MANILA, Philippines — Parqal Mall, which was established in Aseana City, Parañaque in 2023, has been named one of the “World’s Most Beautiful Emporiums” for 2024, placing the Philippines on the global map for architectural excellence.

The recognition came from Prix Versailles, which recognizes outstanding achievements in architectural design annually.

Parqal is one of seven buildings cited by Prix Versailler this year, alongside Dior boutique in Geneva, Switzerland; SKP shopping mall in Chengdu, China; Nouvelles Galeries in Annecy, France; Sabyasachi boutique in Mumbai, India; Bookshops in the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, and the Boucheron Ginza store in Tokyo.

The seven finalists will be vying for three 2024 World Titles: Prix Versailles, Interior and Exterior.

Prix Versailles is known for highlighting excellence in architecture, including airports, campuses, passenger stations, sports facilities, museums, emporiums, hotels and restaurants.

Parqal’s unique design and functionality were cited by Prix Versailles for integrating environmental considerations with focus on mobility.

“Far from dressing itself up in the usual environmental finery, Parqal imposes its inclinations by encouraging people to move about walking, cycling or taking public transport within a complicated architectural setting, making use of Filipino tradition as well as Chinese and Spanish influences,” the Prix Versailles statement read.

Last year, the organization recognized Clark International Airport as one of the “World’s Most Beautiful Airports.”