Project Information
Mengxi Food Market of Julu Foods Group
Shanghai, China
Architects: Roarc Renew
Area: 1360 m²
Year: 2019
Photographs:Freeman
Lead Architect: Robben BAI
Project Architect: Huiqin Lu
Design Architect: Roarc Renew
Project Description
Mengxi Market is a project developed by the Julu Food Group, designed by ROARC. The market features a modern and innovative design
aimed at enhancing the shopping experience by integrating commercial spaces with elements of nature, creating an attractive
environment for users.
Project Concept
The Mengxi Food Market aims to blend local culture with sustainable design, creating a dynamic community hub that balances
economic viability with cultural and environmental value.
Project Information
Masterplan Elevation
Masterplan
01 Trash Room
02 Hut
03 Public Hall
04Power Office
05 Pork
06 Bean Products
07 Beef and Lamb
08 Cutting Warehouse
09 Finished Beef Products
10 Vegetables
11 Fruits
12 Tea Vegetables
13 Bean Leaves
14 Green Vegetables
15 Water Vegetables
16 Small Vegetables
17 Surface Leaves
18 Tendon Muscles
19 Fruits
20 Gourd Vegetables
21 Seafood
22 Duck Eggs
23 Salted Eggs
24 River Fresh Food
25 Plantains
26 Watercress
27 Soybean Sprouts
28 Chinese Broccoli
29 Dried Goods (South and North)
1- Innovative Artistic Design:
An innovative design combining nature and the urban landscape. The use of curved lines and natural materials like wood or straw gives a sense of immersion in an organic environment.
2- Integration of Indoor and Outdoor:
The zoomed-in image reflects the external street, suggesting a focus on blending indoor and outdoor spaces, possibly as part of the market experience.
The importance of greenery in the market’s exterior helps create a comfortable and natural environment for visitors.
3- Natural Colors:
Colors like green and orange, inspired by nature, hint at an emphasis on offering organic or natural products.
Project needs and aim analysis
Project Owner Needs Local Community's Needs Project Aim
Enhance the market's appeal by incorporating unique cultural Access to a unique and culturally rich market experience. ·Improve the block and community environment as a whole
elements. Spaces for social interactions and community bonding. ·Transform Mengxi Food Market into a hub of exquisiteness,
·Create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that resonates with Aesthetic appeal that reflects the authentic old Shanghai style. geniality, and life.
the local community. Opportunities for leisure, relaxation, and socializing within the ·Provide a space that fosters social connections, community
·Maintain a balance between commercial viability and humanistic market environment. engagement, and humanistic care.
elements. Inclusion of elements that cater to different demographics, such as ·Elevate the market's design to reflect the "old Shanghai" style while
·Ensure that the renovation aligns with the budget constraints while senior citizens seeking social engagement. incorporating modern elements for a unique blend.
meeting the overarching goal of improving the block and Maintenance of a balance between commercial activities and ·Utilize symbolic materials to enhance the market's design and
community environment. humanistic values. cultural significance.
·Optimize the use of space to maximize commercial viability without Promotion of small-scale interactions and social gatherings within ·Create a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages social
sacrificing the market's humanistic elements. the market space. gatherings and interactions.
·Maintain the balance between commercial functionality and
humanistic values within the market space.
What is the design method used to improve wellbeing?
Why? Why this design can or cannot
The adaptive reuse approach fosters a sense of connection to the past, contributing to emotional well-being by preserving historical significance while adapting to modern needs. The design encourages
community engagement by creating a public space that facilitates interaction and shared experiences. The modular and flexible design allows for ease of use, offering versatile spaces that can be adjusted
to fit various activities, enhancing physical and social comfort. In our opinion, this blend of cultural preservation and modern functionality provides users with a meaningful experience that transcends typical
market spaces, promoting well-being through both nostalgia and adaptability.
How?
Adaptive Reuse: The design repurposes an existing industrial structure, preserving history while introducing modern elements to create a dynamic, culturally rich environment.
Community Focus: Open, flexible spaces are designed to foster interaction, with areas for public events and gatherings.
Modular Design: Flexibility in layout allows for varied functions and creates a vibrant, ever-changing market atmosphere, making it easy to navigate and engage with.
How Project aims\needs reflected in the design
Historical Context: The design preserves the original structure with minimal intervention, respecting the building's heritage.
Community & Functionality: An open, accessible layout accommodates vendors and visitors, fostering interaction and a welcoming environment.
Spatial Flexibility: Modular elements and open-plan design allow for reconfiguration, adapting to different market needs.
Materiality & Sustainability: Use of sustainable, local materials like brick and concrete balances tradition with environmental consciousness.
Aesthetic Harmony: The blend of industrial and natural materials ensures visual balance, enhancing both function and sensory experience.
Image showing the facade of the market allowing sunlight to pass through
Sustainable Strategies
Lighting and Ventilation Energy Efficiency Sustainable Materials
1.Natural Light Utilization: The design maximizes natural lighting through 1.Energy-Efficient Systems: The incorporation of energy-efficient lighting 1.Wild Bamboo: The use of treated wild bamboo as a structural and
expansive windows and open spaces. This approach reduces reliance on and appliances throughout the market enhances its sustainability profile. aesthetic element aligns with sustainability principles due to its rapid growth
artificial lighting, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere while lowering This is crucial for long-term operational efficiency and reduced energy and renewability. Bamboo is durable, lasting over five years and traditional
energy consumption. costs. significance adds both functionality and cultural context to the design.
2.Local and Natural Materials: The market employs locally sourced wood
2.Natural Ventilation: The layout facilitates natural airflow, minimising the 2.Passive Design Strategies: The building's orientation and design and concrete, minimizing transportation emissions. This choice not only
need for mechanical ventilation. This not only improves indoor air quality elements are optimized to harness natural elements, thereby reducing supports local economies but also ensures that materials are well-suited to
but also contributes to a comfortable environment for both customers and energy usage for heating and cooling. the regional climate.
vendors.
Universal Design Strategies Images showing the materials used, the strategy used to allow
sunlight in, and the green landscape.
Community-Centric Design Accessible and Inclusive Spaces
The design emphasizes creating a public space that serves the The design includes features that cater to all age groups and abilities. For
community, rather than just a commercial place. This approach instance, the market’s façade and entrance are designed to be inviting and
transforms the market into a social center where residents can gather and accessible, with smooth transitions and clear pathways.
interact.
Sustainable Materials Multi-Functional Spaces
The use of sustainable materials, such as bamboo, not only aligns with The design incorporates flexible spaces that can be used for various activities,
environmental goals but also adds a touch of traditional aesthetics, from shopping to social gatherings. This adaptability ensures the market
reflecting the cultural heritage of Shanghai. remains a vibrant part of the community.
Integration with Surroundings
The market’s design respects and enhances its urban context. Elements
like wild bamboo fences and Art Deco influences blend the market
seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood, creating a familiar and
welcoming environment.
The image illustrates ease of access through clear and suitable pathways.
