Buchan is leading the concept and schematic design for the façade and interiors, incorporating a dynamic placemaking strategy grounded in family, food, and entertainment. The four-level, 56,000 sqm complex seamlessly blends lifestyle retail and vibrant dining with day-to-night time entertainment offers, creating a multi-faceted destination designed for families and friends to gather and explore.

At the heart of the experience is a commitment to discovery. The design transforms the central courtyard and common areas into a canvas for playful interventions and immersive art collaborations with local artists. Through curated sculptures, vivid murals, and interactive digital environments, Gatewalk provides endless tik-tok-able opportunities that change the landscape of the centre over time. Key features like the ARTrium and a digital art hallway leading from the main entrance elevate the guest experience.

Reimagining the existing building envelope, the façade has been visually deconstructed through a pixelation of the ‘Cebuano Mosaic’ colour palette, an intricate patchwork of tone and texture inspired by the city’s view from above. A dynamic lighting overlay highlights these architectural features and signifies arrival points, ensuring the vibrant atmosphere seamlessly transitions into an exciting night-time activation.

In contrast to the raw aesthetic of the interior malls, the specialty zones feature textured materiality and unexpected vibrant bursts of colour, intentionally designed to encourage exploration.

The Ayala Malls Gatewalk brand activation will be revealed in October, with the Centre scheduled to open in December 2026.