KRISTEN A. FOX

Cross Street Market currently resides in a crumbling 1950’s concrete construction that spans an entire block.  This structure not only stands out from the historic Federal Hill neighborhood, it divides the block, void of porosity and connection.

The solution I developed not only provides a new market, but also incorporates a small hotel (which the neighborhood is completely lacking, despite its dependence on tourism).  Based on the process of ship construction, it is developed using a series of transverse sections that create each individual market stall and hotel room above. These transverse sections vary slightly to create an undulating facade as one travels down Cross Street. The structure seems to sit precariously on the ground at a single point on each section, which opens up the ground plane to provide access to a new park on the South side. This illusion is created by pin connected, X shaped members with the bottom halves buried below the street surface.  By lifting the structure up off of the ground plane, the residents of the Federal Hill neighborhood are able to access amenities on both sides of the building.  Additionally, farmers and salespeople are allowed to bring their wares directly into the first floor market area instead of having to rent a permanent stall.  The building becomes a connecter: it welcomes the public into it and across it, allows farmers to connect directly to their customers, and implores a community to connect.