How can we create a modern market that combines functionality, spatial organisation and local character? The answer is Zielony Targ in Ciechanów – a new development that transforms the existing commercial area into a well-organised, multi-functional urban space. The project involved the construction of a commercial building with an area of approximately 1,650 square metres, a covered market square, a car park area and an expanded pedestrian and road infrastructure. The building was designed by Agata Parzentna and Michał Kucharski.
Work began with the demolition of the existing buildings and fences, which allowed the layout of the site to be redefined in accordance with the provisions of the Local Spatial Development Plan. The site was divided into two parts – the northern section, designated for the market, and the southern section, dedicated to the car park. The introduction of the internal 3KDL road has organised traffic flow, which in this area is low-intensity and mainly involves deliveries and customer service.
Modular architecture
One of the key design principles was to define two main functional zones and to make maximum use of the space for the market square. An analysis of development options led to the selection of a solution based on a U-shaped retail and service building. This layout allows for the natural demarcation of an internal square, which serves a commercial function on market days and, on other days, becomes an urban forum, ready to host cultural events, fairs or community gatherings.
The development has been divided into four single-storey segments, connected by modules raised to the first storey. The upper levels are designed to accommodate a catering outlet, a green terrace, and technical and storage rooms. The structure, based on a 5 × 5 m column grid, allows for flexible interior design, easy layout changes and the adaptation of premises to tenants’ needs.
The market square as the heart of the development
The central square, surrounded by buildings, functions as a modern market – a place for meetings, trade and everyday activity. Three entrance gates have been designed to allow access from all sides and the efficient transport of goods. These gates are covered by modules with a volume similar to that of the ground-floor units, creating arcades intended for retail trade.
The square is covered by a roof featuring a large circular opening, which provides natural light whilst protecting the market stalls from adverse weather conditions. Designated areas have been set aside for delivery vans and vehicles from which sales will be conducted during the market.
Materials, greenery and energy-efficient solutions
The architecture of Zielony Targ is based on simplicity and timelessness. The façades are designed in white, with white powder-coated profiles. Facing the square, the ground floor is glazed, and a strip has been left above the shop windows for shop signs. Green terraces have been created on the roofs, whilst the profiles rising above the parapet serve as balustrades.
The building is equipped with heat-recovery ventilation and photovoltaic panels, enabling it to operate in an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly manner. The low-rise, understated structure blends harmoniously into the surrounding area of detached houses, without dominating the neighbouring buildings.
The southern part of the plot has been designated as a public car park, and the entire site has been complemented by street furniture – cycle racks, benches and litter bins – all in white, consistent with the façades. Low and tall greenery organises the space and gives it a friendly, urban character.
Zielony Targ in Ciechanów is an example of a development that reorganises an existing commercial area, introduces a new quality to public space and creates a place open to the everyday lives of residents and local initiatives.
design: Agata Parzentna, Michał Kucharski
photographs: Piotr Krajewski
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