Mention Holland Village and words like "hip", "in", "place-to-be-seen" come to mind. Amidst the groovy cosmopolitan restaurants and bars that fill this bustling "village" patronised by both locals and expatriates alike, the 50-year old Holland Village Market then stood out like a sore thumb - old and decrepit. Much as it added to the quaintness of the village atmosphere, it was timely that NEA announced plans for its closure for upgrading last year.

"The stallholders were excited about the upgrading because the centre was very old. They liked the design and looked forward to moving into a more vibrant market where they hope to attract even more customers after the upgrading," said Mr Lim Geok San, Chairman of the HUP Working Committee

By early January 2006, a glowing, new face emerged, raising the hip quotient of Holland Village. The new design of the Holland Village Food centre was distinct – a metallic shell roof contrasting the timber-decked 'alfresco' seats and lush landscape. It even comes complete with handicap-friendly features as well as diaper-changing facilities in the toilets – features unheard of at old hawker centres and markets.