Blagoevgrad Farmers' Market

The project site is located between the pedestrian zone in the city center and the American University in Bulgaria, along a riverside promenade. The program includes a canopy covering the space for holding farmers’ markets twice a week and providing space for 80 tables, easily unfolded when in use and easily folded and stored in a special garage on non-market days, when the space can be adapted for use for other purposes and events, such as a playground, meeting area, concerts, etc. The architectural identity is defined by a simple, minimalist canopy, complemented by custom-made furniture.

The development of public spaces in Blagoevgrad has largely stagnated since the end of the Socialist era. In the past three decades, no significant new public space has been created or sustainably embraced as part of the city’s identity. Yet, vibrant public spaces are essential — they function as the “living rooms” of cities, where people meet, communicate, and share moments of celebration and collective joy. Thriving cities are defined by an abundance of such communal environments, transforming them into welcoming destinations for residents and visitors alike. The richness and diversity of experiences that unfold in these spaces form the essence of urban culture and stand as a defining feature of modern civilization. The Blagoevgrad Farmers' market embodies this vision — a new, contemporary public space designed to rekindle civic life and bring people together in the heart of Blagoevgrad.

The canopy embodies a minimalist idea — a horizontal plane supported by six widely spaced columns. Beneath this simplicity lies technical sophistication: deep foundations amid dense utilities, a prefabricated steel frame, an innovative vacuum drainage system, and bespoke skylights with integrated lighting. A handcrafted wooden ceiling, produced locally over a year, adds warmth and precision. Site grading was carefully optimized within a tight budget. The natural slope was reshaped to create a level surface with efficient drainage, blending seamlessly into the landscape. Locally sourced rhyolite defines pavements, custom lighting, and benches, while eight new trees enhance harmony. Designing the market’s furnishings posed another challenge — flexible, mobile tables. Inspired by supermarket carts, foldable tables on wheels allow quick setup, storage, and movement, stored discreetly in a dedicated booth beside the canopy.