Designed to enhance the functionality of public amenities, the Toilet Upgrading Works at Raffles City Shopping Centre demonstrate the importance of effective planning, coordination, and getting the right professional Quantity Surveying Services in supporting successful commercial upgrading works within an active retail environment.

Client : CapitaLand Retail Management Pte Ltd

Main Contractor : Sunray Woodcraft Construction Pte Ltd

Sector: Commercial

Location: Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore

The Toilet Upgrading Works at Raffles City Shopping Centre involved refurbishment works across the Basement and Levels 1, 2, and 3 of the shopping centre. Given the high daily foot traffic and the essential role of toilet facilities for both shoppers and tenants, the project required careful planning to minimise disruption while ensuring construction progress remained on schedule.

A mock-up toilet unit was developed to assess workmanship, review design details, and facilitate management’s visual inspection and approval before proceeding with the remaining toilet units. This process helped establish quality benchmarks and ensured consistency throughout the project.

Carrying out refurbishment works within an operational shopping centre required strategic planning and close coordination between construction activities and ongoing mall operations. To minimise disruption to shoppers and tenants, a five-phase execution plan was developed to strategically sequence toilet closures and reopenings across all levels. This approach supported business continuity while allowing upgrading works to progress efficiently.

Through effective communication, documentation, cost control, and stakeholder coordination, the project successfully balanced operational requirements with construction objectives throughout the refurbishment process.

The upgraded facilities were designed with a strong focus on user experience, comfort, and functionality. Also, drawing inspiration from renowned architect I.M. Pei’s concept of the “dimension of mystery”, the design incorporates curved corners and softened transitions that create a greater sense of openness and fluidity within the space. These design elements contribute to a more welcoming and comfortable environment for shoppers.

To further enhance user comfort, personalised sink-and-mirror ledges were introduced in place of traditional long counter layouts. This design approach provides greater convenience, improves organisation, and creates a more refined user experience.

Throughout the project, careful consideration was given to sanitary ware selection, brand consistency, and design requirements to ensure the facilities met the client’s expectations for quality and functionality.

Also incorporate smart technology features, the upgraded facilities included IoT-enabled occupancy monitoring systems and WC Occupancy Monitoring panels located at the entrances of each toilet unit.

These systems allow visitors to conveniently view stall availability while supporting maintenance teams through improved monitoring and operational efficiency. Careful consideration was given to sensor performance and system integration to ensure reliable operation and a seamless user experience.

Once the upgrades were completed,  the project received positive recognition from Jack Sim, Founder of the World Toilet Organization and creator of UN World Toilet Day, who highlighted the importance of well-maintained and thoughtfully designed public toilets in enhancing user experience and supporting Singapore’s reputation for high standards of sanitation.

The refurbishment reflects CapitaLand’s commitment to delivering a holistic shopping experience through quality amenities, smart facility management, and customer-centric design. By combining innovative technology, practical design solutions, and careful operational planning, the project contributes to a more seamless and enjoyable retail experience for shoppers and visitors.

We were appointed as the Consultant Quantity Surveyor for the project, providing professional Quantity Surveying Consultancy Services from the pre-tender stage. Digital tools such as Bluebeam were utilised for digital measurement, drawing review, and PDF documentation, supporting efficient coordination and accurate QS deliverables.

Our scope of services included:

Pre-contract Cost Planning to establish cost certainty and support effective budget management.

Preparation of Tender Documentation to facilitate the procurement process.

Cost Management Services to monitor and control project expenditure.

Providing cost advice, financial analysis, and commercial support throughout the project lifecycle.

The project involved several key considerations, including:

Multi-level toilet upgrading works across the Basement and Levels 1, 2, and 3 of Raffles City Shopping Centre.

Development of a mock-up toilet unit for workmanship assessment and management approval.

Five-phase execution planning to minimise disruption within an operational retail environment.

Integration of WC Occupancy Monitoring panels to enhance user convenience.

We used our professional quantity surveying services in Singapore provided by e to support cost planning, procurement, and project delivery.

Adoption of digital QS workflows through Bluebeam for measurement and documentation.

The completion of the Toilet Upgrading Works at Raffles City Shopping Centre highlights the value of effective planning, stakeholder coordination, cost management, and professional consultancy in delivering refurbishment works within an active commercial environment.

Beyond the successful delivery of the construction works, the project demonstrates how thoughtful design, smart technology integration, and careful project planning can enhance both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The upgraded facilities support Raffles City’s commitment to providing high-quality amenities while contributing to a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience for visitors.