The Market Square of Stara Zagora

Status: Competition

Year: 2024

Type: Civic & Public Buildings

Location: Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

By strategically intervening in the existing urban fabric, we aim to create a dynamic and inclusive public space that respects the context while fostering a vibrant future by creating a space that is both timeless and relevant. Our approach involves a two-pronged strategy: reorganization of the area and addition of new architectural elements. Through these strategies, we try to create flexible spaces that can accommodate a variety of activities, from informal gatherings to formal events.

Market Square

Reorganization

In zones 2 and 3, we prioritized pedestrian safety and comfort through redesigning pathways, clear signage, and ample pedestrian crossings. Additionally, we added a green belt between the walkways and the street, which boosts pedestrian safety, creates a more friendly atmosphere, provides shade, and prevents cars from parking on the sidewalks (which is currently happening on the site). By removing ununified stalls, movable objects, and other sources of visual clutter, we made way for the second part of our strategy: designing and adding new architectural elements that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Addition of New Architectural Elements

Top View

Zone 1 is a programless, vast space. Therefore, we introduced new boundaries, furniture, green spaces, and microclimatic islands designed for gatherings and socializing of different groups of people. By creating flexible and adaptable event spaces like The Cube, The Pyramid, and The Circle, we aim to boost social interaction and community engagement while designing distinctive architectural landmarks that enhance the site's identity and attract visitors.

Pyramid

In zones 2 and 3, we proposed a unified design for architectural elements like stalls and a layout plan. The stall is a modular design that can be assembled, disassembled, moved, used alone, or as a group of stalls in different colors.

Water Feature