Lukstudio Draws on Open-Air Market Aesthetics for a Modern Grocery in Changsha, China
March 1, 2021
By Carlene Olsen
A metal mesh canopy hangs above the fresh produce, mimicking tarpaulin seen in open-air markets. Photography by Dirk Weiblen Photography.
A trip to the grocery store is hardly as enticing as one to an outdoor market, but design firm Lukstudio set out to challenge this notion. In creating The Assembled Market in Changsha, China, for the region's new supermarket brand, Fresh Mart, the design team envisioned a contemporary gathering space that offers more than meticulously stacked shelves. "
Growing up in Hong Kong, I have always loved the experience at Dai Pai Dong—a name we called these ad-hoc structures in wet market or a street corner where local dishes are served," says Christina Luk, founder and director of Lukstudio. "In fact, throughout Asia, outdoor street markets are often where you encounter authentic local delights and cultures, as opposed to most cookie-cutter supermarkets."