MarketHouse is a hybrid building in the soviet microrayon of Mustakivi, Lasnamae, that integrates residential and commercial spaces, creating a micro-economy system of production and consumption.
This system elevates individuals, making them dignified and self-sufficient, while also fostering social interactions and a sense of belonging within their local community.
Integrating commercial shops into Mustakivi can significantly contribute to street animation, a quality that is lacking in the streets of the site. These shops attract foot traffic and create a sense of bustling activity. Furthermore, they contribute to the local economy, create job opportunities, and enhance the overall liveliness of the area. By promoting entrepreneurship and local businesses, Mustakivi can develop its unique identity and character, distinguishing it as a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood.
For my urban and architectural configuration, I found inspiration in the mat building typology, particularly drawing from North African cities and traditional patterns, whose forms, geometries, and spatial configurations echo the lively essence of animated cities. The volumes of MarketHouse follow a mat grid, which I’ve carefully manipulated to harmonize with the surrounding perimeter, in a combination of different and pure geometries.