Located in the geometric centre of Pazardzhik, the market has historically played a foundational role in the city’s development. In its current state, however, it faces a series of challenges – poor accessibility, pollution, chaotically distributed functions and an almost absent green system. The project seeks to restore the market as a key urban place by transforming it into a clearly defined focal point. It is highlighted as a distinct element within the urban fabric, set apart from its adjoining territory, which is integrated into the design of the adjacent pedestrian zone.
At the urban level, the project redesigns the adjoining streets as shared spaces, extending the pedestrian zone with limited vehicular access. The placement of sales tables and pavilions allows pedestrians to move freely both east–west and north–south, organically connecting the market with the park alleys and the pedestrian shopping area. Visual corridors are established, with the canopy of the market acting as a landmark. The existing mature trees are complemented by landscaped areas, recreational areas and a children’s playground.
The functional zoning is structured around two main groups of sales tables – for food products and for household goods. Additional functions are housed in four two-storey pavilions, enabling a mix of uses that animate the market throughout different times of the day. The unified space and the large canopy, simultaneously sheltering from the elements and framing the site, allow for the island-like arrangement of outdoor sales tables and two-storey shop pavilions. An openwork metal gallery provides access to the upper level, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the market from different viewpoints and at varied rhythms of movement.
The market is covered by two openwork canopies of white metal construction. Their height provides shelter from weather conditions without visually burdening the public space. The lightness of the structure is further accentuated by controlled light permeability. The system is composed of slender cylindrical steel columns and beams, reinforced by diagonal bracing. Polycarbonate panels and suspended steel rods regulate direct sunlight and allow diffuse illumination, preventing overheating of the trading areas. With the minimal contour height and the white finish of the structure, the canopy achieves an airy and welcoming character.
The grid of the pavilions corresponds to the small scale of the neighbouring two-storey commercial buildings. Together with the canopies, they create a distinctive silhouette and image that reinforces the identity of the market. Their façades are built of prefabricated timber panels, finished with a green azure stain.