Geylang Serai's new civic centre will have both traditional elements like a double-pitched roof and ketupat-inspired features, and contemporary ones like a pedestrian mall integrated into its ground level.

The design by Design-Environment Group Architects was the winner out of 56 entries in a design competition held earlier this year, said Dr Maliki Osman, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for National Development and Defence at an award ceremony on Saturday. Of those, five were shortlisted for the final round.

The winning design will "help to both amplify the distinctive identity of Geylang Serai and strengthen its urban character," said Dr Maliki.

The new civic centre, to be built on the site of the former Malay Village, will house a community club, the Malay Heritage Gallery, the South East CDC office, and other arts and community facilities.

Construction will begin next year and is expected to be completed in 2017.