As part of a project to revive the town center of the Schiltigheim municipality, French studio Dominique Coulon & Associés is tasked to create "a covered market alongside an exhibition area, workshops for creatives and a concrete cafe." The site is a former distillery in the town and the existing structures boast a raw feel that exudes an industrial ambiance.
Prior to this project, the four buildings that are part of the development have been severely neglected and as a result, Dominique Coulon & Associés introduced numerous changes and design solutions while attempting to preserve the historical value of each. The biggest unit was mostly altered to accommodate its new functionalities. The covered market now houses a permanent fishmonger and butcher, as well as various temporary spaces for artisans.
Image Credit: Eugeni Pons
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Revitalizing Historic Buildings
- There is an opportunity to repurpose neglected historic buildings and breathe new life into them by introducing innovative design solutions.
- Mixed-use Spaces
- Creating multi-functional spaces that serve as a market, exhibition area, workshop, and cafe provides an innovative approach to urban planning and community development.
- Preserving Historical Value
- Combining preservation efforts with modern design solutions allows for the preservation of historical value while still meeting the needs of contemporary businesses and consumers.
Sectors Adopting This
- Architecture
- Architects and designers have an opportunity to contribute to urban revitalization by repurposing neglected buildings and integrating innovative design solutions.
- Food and Beverage
- The concept of a permanent fishmonger, butcher, and various temporary spaces for artisans in a covered market presents opportunities for businesses in the food and beverage industry to occupy unique and vibrant spaces.
- Community Development
- Reviving historic buildings and creating mixed-use spaces offers opportunities for community developers to foster vibrant and inclusive communities that cater to a variety of needs.
