The market has always played a key role in the life of a community – a place for the exchange of information and goods, meetings and a space of cultural significance. In the context of contemporary cities, the market is often the focal point that defines the character and identity of a place. This is exactly what the new market of Loftspace and Tiago Sousa’s project in the Portuguese village of Caminha is like: functional and integrated into its surroundings.
The existing building of the town square had deteriorated over time, becoming a temporary space that did not meet safety, hygiene or accessibility requirements. Frequent technical problems and wear and tear on the materials led to the decision for a radical solution – demolishing the existing building and replacing it with a new one that would fit better into the context of the place.
The design of the new market in the town of Caminha was made to integrate fully with the surrounding natural and urban landscape. The Pontaut Combault square, where the new building was erected, is a space with a unique location – surrounded by the urban fabric on one side and adjacent to the Minho riverfront on the other. The architects aimed for the new market to blend harmoniously into this environment, creating a coherent connection between the different elements of the landscape.
The main body of the building, with a simple cuboid form, was designed with functionality and aesthetics in mind. The façade, flanked by a series of pillars, creates an external gallery. This modern, austere appearance of the building is offset by the use of materials such as concrete and Molianos stone cladding, which give the project a warm and refined character that blends perfectly with the picturesque village of Caminha.
One of the key objectives of the project was to create a space that provides a free flow between the interior and the exterior. Thanks to the use of large, transparent planes, users will be able to enjoy views of the town and the river, both while outside and inside the building. The interior of the market, designed with people in mind, has been divided into three main sections: the retail area, the central market with a high ceiling and open space, and the technical area.
The designers also took care of the practical aspects of using the building. The interiors were covered with washable, waterproof epoxy paint, which will make it easier to maintain high hygiene standards. In addition, autonomous routes and exits for staff and technical spaces separated from the main public area will ensure the smooth functioning of the facility.
The new market in Caminha is not only a place of commerce, but also a space that is set to become a new meeting point for residents. With its thoughtful architecture and harmonious integration with its surroundings, the building has the potential to become an icon of the town, attracting both the local community and visitors.
With its modern form, functionality and attention to detail, the design of the new market in Caminha is an example of architecture that not only responds to the current needs of its users, but also becomes a permanent element of the urban landscape, bringing a new quality to everyday life in this picturesque village.
Project name: Mercado Caminha
Architectural Office: LOFTSPACE and TIAGO SOUSA
Principal Architect: RUI CORREIA and TIAGO SOUSA
Location: Caminha, Portugal
Year of construction: 2023
Total area: 900 sq m.
Photography: Ivo Tavares Studio
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