Global Architecture & Masterplanning

Beyond the Blueprint

Global retail and leisure destinations are being redefined by visionary architecture and intelligent masterplanning. From mixed-use megaprojects to culturally rooted community hubs, design is no longer simply about space – it is about creating immersive, sustainable and commercially resilient experiences. This special feature will explore the global projects architects and masterplanners are shaping through dynamic and experiential design.

Retail and leisure architecture has entered a defining new era. No longer driven solely by scale or spectacle, today’s most successful destinations are shaped by strategic masterplanning, cultural intelligence and a deep understanding of how people want to live, shop and connect. Across global markets, design has become a critical differentiator – transforming commercial assets into experiential environments that blend retail, hospitality, entertainment, workspace and residential components into cohesive, future-ready ecosystems.

From next-generation lifestyle districts to urban regeneration schemes and mixed-use innovation hubs, masterplanning is redefining how destinations are conceived and delivered. Flexibility, walkability and placemaking now sit at the heart of development strategies, alongside sustainability targets and digital integration. Architects and planners are designing spaces that are not only commercially viable, but socially meaningful and environmentally responsible.

Consumer expectations have fundamentally shifted. Experience is paramount, authenticity is valued and convenience is assumed. In response, global design leaders are prioritising human-centric layouts, curated public realms, adaptive reuse strategies and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. Retail is no longer confined to transactional space; it is embedded within a broader narrative of lifestyle and community.

At the same time, economic volatility and evolving retail models demand resilience. Masterplans must accommodate changing tenant mixes, omni-channel integration and long-term asset repositioning. The result is a new generation of destinations built around flexibility and storytelling as much as architecture.

Over the coming pages, we will explore how recent global architecture and masterplanning schemes are shaping the next chapter of retail and leisure – creating places that capture attention, foster loyalty and stand the test of time in an increasingly competitive world.

Examples of Global Architecture & Masterplanning

Oakridge Park, Canada’s largest redevelopment from developers QuadReal Property Group and Westbank, is setting a new standard in Vancouver’s luxury retail scene. As part of this world-class destination, a collection of prestigious global brands will make their debut in spring 2026, transforming the city’s retail landscape and offering an unparalleled shopping experience. The latest brands joining Oakridge Park include Loewe, Loro Piana, Valentino, Dolce&Gabbana, Thom Browne and Acne Studios. Contemporary, beauty and wellness retailers joining the scheme include ALO, Sporting Life, Veronica Beard, Sandro, Maje, Petit Pont, Sisley Paris, Sephora, Diptyque, Lush Brow Bar and Mophead. Returning to the centre are retailers BOSS, Coach and Swarovski. Beyond retail, Oakridge Park will be a multi-faceted destination, defined by experience, culture and community. Spanning 28 acres and over five million square feet, the first phase of the development features four residential towers, office space, a community centre and the largest library on Vancouver’s West Side, a nine-acre park, a one-kilometre running loop and more. Oakridge Park will also enhance Vancouver’s already vibrant culinary scene with Time Out Market – a food and cultural market bringing the best of the city together under one roof – alongside other highly anticipated dining options. The scheme, being designed and masterplanned by Henriquez Partners Architects, serves as a bespoke and captivating cultural destination for Vancouver and is designed to seamlessly encompass every aspect of people’s lives, where living, working and playing converge harmoniously, offering a space for inspiration, personal growth and relaxation.

The Jane Finch Mall in Toronto is undergoing a large-scale redevelopment into a master-planned community featuring residential units, commercial space and public amenities. The project, spearheaded by developer Hullmark and owner Brad-Jay Investments, will include a mix of new buildings, new parkland, community facilities and new retail and commercial space, with the first phase focusing on towers from 27 to 50 storeys. Most of the existing mall will remain open during the initial construction phases, with the full build-out expected over the next 15 to 20 years. Once completed, the masterplanned community will have over 4,600 condo units, 173,622sq ft of retail space, 15,715sq ft of community space and 121,202sq ft of open space. This variety of uses will give the new community a modern, urban feel, making it one of the best investments on the market.

Developer Fibra Danhos has launched a landmark urban development in Oaxaca City through a $320M investment to transform the historic Hotel Misión de Los Ángeles into Parque Oaxaca, a mixed-use centre that will combine business, culture and sustainability while generating 7,000 jobs. Parque Oaxaca will be designed by architect Mauricio Rocha. The project will include more than 50,000sq ft of space and feature 122 retail spaces, a Liverpool department store, cinemas, dining areas, a gym and a boutique hotel. The design features tree-lined plazas, pedestrian corridors and open-air walkways that integrate with the city’s historic scale and landscape. In addition, the project includes environmental restoration efforts such as cleaning the Jalatlaco River, preserving century-old trees and pursuing LEED certification, which recognises global standards for sustainable construction and resource efficiency. With its mix of commerce, culture and environmental responsibility, Parque Oaxaca is destined to become a cornerstone of urban renewal and economic vitality in southern Mexico when it launches in 2027.

Hudson Yards is a massive, multi-phase project with no single “final” completion date, but Phase 1 opened in March 2019, major towers like 50 Hudson Yards opened in 2022 and Phase 2, including residential and park elements, was announced in 2025 with ongoing development, aiming for broader completion of its massive vision over many years, potentially into the 2030s for all aspects. Hudson Yards is considered the largest private real estate development in US history, with a total cost estimated in the tens of billions and its build-out is a long-term, multi-decade endeavour rather than a single event. While core elements are complete, the full vision, particularly with Phase 2 and potential future expansions, continues to develop. Being developed by The Related Companies and Oxford Properties Group, Hudson Yards is a transformative 28-acre mixed-use development on Manhattan’s West Side and features over 18 million square feet of commercial and residential space, including office towers, luxury residences, a hotel and more than 100 shops and restaurants. Key attractions include The Vessel, a striking staircase structure and The Shed, a cultural centre for the arts. Hudson Yards aims to contribute nearly $19bn annually to New York City’s GDP.

Techo International Airport (TIA) is Cambodia’s newest main international gateway, located approximately 20 kilometres south of Phnom Penh. It will serve as the country’s primary airport, connecting the Kingdom to the region and the world. Spanning 2,600ha, it will be among the largest airports in the world and is expected to accommodate up to 15 million passengers annually in its first phase. The first phase is currently operational and has a main terminal with a pier of 31 boarding gates, one runway measuring 4,000m in length and 75m in width including shoulders, two parallel taxiways. The second phase will include a second pier and an additional runway, increasing the total capacity to 30 million passengers annually. TIA is the result of international collaboration, with the lead architect being Foster + Partners, whilst the developer was Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd. (CAIC), a joint venture between the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) and the Cambodian government’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation.

The K11 ECOAST Cultural and Art District opened its doors last year in Shenzhen, China. The project, led by K11 brand founder Adrian Cheng, had been in preparation for over seven years. Adhering to the core philosophy of “Art, Humanity and Nature”, K11 ECOAST leverages the natural scenery and expansive space of Taiziwan to create a “luxurious-style” urban public space where people can enjoy the coast, immerse themselves in art and take leisurely strolls. K11 ECOAST features a total construction area of nearly 230,000sq m and with an overall appearance resembling a giant ship berthed in the harbour, it comprises several key components: the cultural retail landmark K11 ECOAST, the multi-functional cultural space K11 Cultural Centre, the next-generation office space K11 ATELIER and the coastal promenade. The scheme was designed by a team including OMA, David Chipperfield Architects and Sou Fujimoto.

The Shanghai Grand Opera House, designed by Snøhetta, is expected to open in the second half of 2026. Located in the Houtan neighbourhood along the Huangpu River, the project is currently in the final stages of construction, featuring a distinct helical roof intended to act as a public stage and promenade. Snøhetta won the competition for the scheme’s design in 2017 and developed the project in collaboration with the East China Architectural Design & Research Institute, Theatre Projects and Nagata Acoustics. Located on the bank of the Huangpu River, the opera house forms part of Shanghai’s wider cultural master plan, which aims to strengthen the city’s role as a global hub for culture, commerce and innovation. The venue is designed to accommodate a wide range of performances, from traditional opera and orchestral music to contemporary and experimental productions.

The new social heart of Kuala Lumpur, The Exchange TRX is a dynamic retail and lifestyle destination seamlessly integrated within a 10-acre public park. Launched in November 2023 by developers Lendlease and TRX City Sdn Bhd and with architectural work by Leonard Design Architects, it represents the future of experiential retail, sustainable urban living and vibrant cultural expression. Part of the 17-acre lifestyle quarter of TRX, The Exchange TRX brings international placemaking and sustainability standards to Malaysia, strategically located in the nation’s first dedicated international financial district. The large-scale experience-led destination encompasses retail, Malaysia’s first Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants that is connected to the TRX City Park, six premier residential towers, a low-rise large floor plate campus-style office and a dedicated Marr Rapid Transport station. The first part of the development is currently being completed in stages up until 2027 before moving onto plot two.

Central Pattana, a leading Thai real estate developer, has announced the launch of “The Central Phaholyothin” – a 21bn-baht flagship megaproject in Thailand. Positioned as “The Landmark of Northern Bangkok”, the project is situated between Vibhavadi Rangsit Road and Phahon Yothin Road and can be accessed from both roads. It will span 49 rai and feature a total gross building area of 457,409sq m. The project includes a world-class Convention Hall measuring 6,700sq m, designed to host international concerts and global-scale events. Rather than simply being a shopping mall, The Central Phaholyothin will function as a “Curated Community” designed to cater to every generation under the concept of “The Central Playlist”. Developed in collaboration with leading Thai and international designers such as PHTAA Living Design, the project will feature signature spaces including Central Stage, Waterfall Courtyard, Fashion Playlist and Creative Playlist, offering visitors fresh experiences with each visit. The Central Phaholyothin is poised to redefine the city’s urban landscape and accelerate growth in the capital’s northern corridor. The project is scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2026, according to the developers.

Transforming one of Sydney’s most celebrated heritage sites into a new world-class luxury destination, The Lands by Capella, opened on 2 February, is a landmark mixed-use, regenerative placemaking development that blends heritage architecture with bold innovation. Anchoring the revitalised Sandstone Precinct alongside the neighbouring Capella Sydney hotel, the former Department of Lands building encompasses approximately 10,000sq m of experiential luxury retail, refreshing F&B concepts with rooftop dining and large-scale event spaces – including an opulent ballroom and The Sandstones Club by Florence Guild, designed to inspire a modern renaissance in how we live, work and connect. The two Sandstone buildings also mark Singapore-based developer Pontiac Land Group’s first mixed-use development in Australia and one of the largest privately funded tourism infrastructure projects in NSW. The project was designed by Hassell in collaboration with Purcell.

A new world-class destination, The Ellinikon is an upcoming ‘smart’ and ‘green’ city on the Athens Riviera and constitutes the largest urban regeneration project in Europe. With views of the endless blue of the Aegean Sea and breathtaking sunsets, The Ellinikon is the ultimate year-round destination. The 15-minute paradigm city offers a new contemporary way of life for everyone. Smart residences, top shopping offerings, high-end gastronomy and entertainment options, place The Ellinikon at the centre of global interest. The Ellinikon, the new landmark of 21st-century Greece, invites you to discover it through a journey of exciting experiences. Part of this groundbreaking development, The Ellinikon Mall will be a new meeting point for all as visitors will be able to explore an innovative destination that spans 100,000sq m, offering premier retail, F&B and entertainment offerings. Developer LAMDA Development’s vision for the iconic The Ellinikon Mall is to unite shopping, entertainment, work and relaxation within a single space, offering visitors a fresh way of life within contemporary infrastructures distinguished by their exceptional aesthetics. The first major projects and public spaces (including retail) are scheduled for completion and opening this year.

QUEENS District is a transformative mixed-use development taking shape in the heart of Bucharest, bringing together modern office spaces, premium residential units and vibrant retail and medical facilities. Designed by Chapman Taylor, architectural design provided by FUSE Architecture and developed by SPEEDWELL, it combines 23,000sq m of offices, 237 apartments and 2,500sq m of retail around generous landscaped plazas filled with greenery. With construction progressing and a strong commitment to sustainability, QUEENS District is setting new standards through zero-emission carbon buildings powered by renewable energy, individual heat pumps, photovoltaics and smart energy-saving systems. The project is targeting WELL and BREEAM certifications, ensuring healthier and greener spaces for future generations when it opens in Q2 2027.

Battersea Power Station has announced the appointment of renowned masterplanner and strategic urban design practice, Studio Egret West, to evolve the original Rafael Viñoly masterplan for the remaining 16-acres of the 42-acre riverside neighbourhood. The ambitions for the new plans will reflect that, with the potential to deliver up to 3.2 million square feet of residential, commercial, cultural and leisure space, the future phases will continue the evolution of one of the most exciting large-scale brownfield regeneration opportunities remaining in Central London. Studio Egret West’s appointment will ensure the project fully reflects the changes in societal behaviour and technology for the future. The plans will aim to advance the neighbourhood’s rich mixed-use offering, while contributing to the Mayor of London’s Growth Plan. Having laid derelict for nearly three decades, Battersea Power Station was purchased by its current Malaysian shareholders in 2012 and has since been successfully transformed with over 2,200 homes, c. 800,000sq ft of office space, a new Zone 1 London Underground station and over 150 retail, dining and leisure experiences. The final phases of Battersea Power Station will connect to the new Nine Elms Park, a 14-acre green space running from Vauxhall, through Nine Elms and concluding at the six-acre riverfront Power Station Park.

Two stops from London Bridge and four stops from Waterloo, Canada Water is already one of London’s best-connected places. Canada Water’s 53 acres is defined by its history, culture, the people who live here and the flourishing biodiversity of Canada Dock, surrounding woodlands and green spaces. Its new chapter will include everything from flexible workspace and labs and a new high street and town square to 12 acres of new public realm and a new 3.5 acre park. Inspired by its rich heritage, Canada Water’s sustainable two million square feet of state-of-the-art work and lab spaces, one million square feet of world-class retail and cultural space, 3,000 new homes and green public spaces will make it one of London’s most exceptional places to work, live, relax and grow. The first phase of the Canada Water masterplan completes this year, delivering 300,000sq ft of workspace and 13,000sq ft of retail at Three Deal Porters and Dock Shed, a new leisure centre for Southwark Council and 186 new homes at The Founding. Under development by British Land in a joint venture with AustralianSuper, the project is a wide-ranging one and is not expected to be fully complete for the next 10-15 years.

The Aventura project in Jaber Al-Ahmad by architect Pace embodies a future vision for development projects in Kuwait, as it is considered one of the sustainable community projects currently under construction within the partnership between the private and public sectors. Developer Mabanee, along with an alliance that includes the National Industries Group and the Privatization Holding Company, is developing the project located within the development of Jaber Al-Ahmad City. The project’s design vision stems from creating a new destination with a contemporary identity and an opportunity to enjoy living in a modern, vibrant city, in which the most prominent elements of the inspiring urban environment are harmonised, including residential elements and many facilities and services such as gardens as well as commercial elements. Aventura Residences is distinguished by its proximity to the commercial component Aventura Mall, which extends over a built-up area of 295,000sq m and a total leasable area of 108,200sq m. As for Aventura Mall, it has been designed with international standards to be a contemporary symbol of Jaber Al-Ahmad City, in order to attract visitors from all over Kuwait, as it will incorporate many stores and international brands such as retail stores, restaurants and various cafes to add a distinct shopping and entertainment experience. The entire project is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2026.

Back in July, design and architectural practice LWK + PARTNERS, proudly presented Pulse Wadi, Saudi Arabia’s pioneering national technology and cybersecurity district. The project represents a bold vision for the future, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and setting a new benchmark in sustainable urban development. Pulse Wadi spans an impressive 600,000sq m with a Gross Floor Area (GFA) of 1.14 million square metres and a budget of AED12.1bn. Pulse Wadi is strategically positioned on the outskirts of Riyadh, leveraging its proximity to national infrastructure networks and offering a distinctive, future-ready environment.

The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, is a major art museum under construction on Saadiyat Island, UAE, with a scheduled opening in 2025-2026. Set to be the largest of the Guggenheim museums at 42,000sq m, it will focus on 20th and 21st-century art, particularly from West Asia, North Africa and South Asia. The museum will have 30 galleries with a total of 11,600sq m of interior space and an additional 23,000sq m of exterior exhibition spaces.

Developer Binghatti and automotive brand Mercedes-Benz are set to build an AED30bn masterplan community in Nad Al Sheba. The Mercedes-Benz Places Binghatti City development, spanning nearly nine million square feet, will be delivered in three phases offering more than 13,000 residences within 12 towers. The Grand Promenade acts as the spine of the project, connecting zones such as the Crown Arena for events, a Picnic Grove and Meadow Pavilion with family‑focused areas such as Little Marvels and Aqua Joy. The mixed-use community will create a “city within a city”. The final handover is anticipated in mid-to-late 2029.