Market
What is market?
The design starts by understanding what a market is ? what components does a market holds? what kind of space is needed for market? and why does a markety exsist?
Markets are of many types but basic components it requires are consumers, retailers, wholesellers and storage . These elements create opportunities and space which are shaped by external forces like cityscape , economic crisis and many more.
It's pretty simple when understanding market like what does a typicall vegetable market looks like ? series of stalls dividing seller and consumer by creating a large display which is oriented and beautifies in ways that makes you pause and look around creating an impression and creativity but the functioning of market is way complicated. A maket cannot be created its a reaction which happens in city and shapes of those markets are result which keep on changing as pressures change. Markets form communities , pollitics , histories and forms in such a way that represents the situation and forces at that particular time.
Somwari Bazar
Adjacent to Chincholi Bunder there is a market called Somwar Bazaar. As the name suggests, this bazaar is active only on Mondays. Chincholi Bunder, is an area that was once a part of the larger trading and shipping activities that were central to Mumbai's growth as a port city. Somwari Bazar, has been an essential part of the socio-economic fabric of the suburban community, providing a platform for trade, exchange, and cultural interactions. The market was established in early 1900’s and was mainly inhabited by local East-Indian Community, Bhandaris and Kolis. During the late 1960s influx of immigrants, mainly South Indians, Gujaratis and mainland Maharashtrians diversified the demographics of the region.The market caters to various needs, including food, textiles, handicrafts, and more. Makeshift stalls or booths are set up using simple materials such as wood, bamboo, fabric, and tarpaulin to provide shelter for vendors and customers. These structures can be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing the market to operate on specific days or times. The absence of permanent walls or roofs contributes to a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. Vendors arrange their stalls in rows or clusters, creating narrow walkways and lanes for shoppers to explore. Seating areas and gathering spots have been integrated into the market's architecture where people gather to interact, exchange news, and build community bonds.
Site
Dattani Trade Centre, Chandavarkar Road, Borivali (West)
site plan
Problems
Rigidity in structure . no flows are controlled , no open spaces, fenestrations like roof and external facade interrupting the market , no duties or power can be observed.
Arrangement of space is illogical and inappropriate for market’s health. No relationship with outdoor and indoor space. Just a prison.
Speculations
A depth that encourages to participate more with the footpath and the relation with the existing structure
Mobility is what helps to shape market. Allowance, safety , openings , distance and enabling. Basically customer delight.
Using space and crafting it with particular interest like their work should be displayed, customers to gather around and mobility.
