MERCADO +
Situated within the historical layers of the Camikebir district, this “Civic Core” project bridges urban heritage with contemporary design through a bold, deconstructivist architectural language. Driven by the concept of “Mercado” culture of Spain, the intervention transcends being a mere commercial destination. Instead, it is reinterpreted as a dynamic public epicenter where cultural exchange, social inclusion, and collective memory are continuously reproduced.
The architectural morphology draws its primary inspiration from the Muqarnas—one of the most complex geometric elements of traditional Islamic structure. The Muqarnas’ character of gradual, prismatic vertical transitions is abstracted into a dynamic, fragmented roofscape. This avant-garde roof fractures the mass, manages natural light, and creates an interlocking tectonic interior that honors the historical context while projecting a futuristic vision.
Functionally, this formal language encloses the core philosophy of the project: the creation of a “Third Space”. Acting as a vibrant social intersection outside of home and work, this center dissolves rigid boundaries to catalyze community interaction and spontaneous collaboration. The building integrates a diverse, flexible programmatic layout under its fragmented canopy. The core program consists of a democratic City Council space, dedicated NGO Rooms for collaborative organizations, and versatile Meeting Rooms. To foster active production and public engagement, the design incorporates a cutting-edge Maker Space, shared Co-Working Spaces, and fluid Exhibition Spaces that showcase local creativity.
These functions are seamlessly stitched together by open and semi-open courtyards inspired by traditional marketplace layouts, effectively inviting the street fabric into the heart of the building. Backed by a thoroughly developed system section, this Muqarnas-inspired deconstructivist form materializes into a structurally sound, sustainable, and highly contextual architectural reality that activates the city.
