The new central market becomes a landmark in the city. A dominant that can be seen from different perspectives. With its characteristic roof and facades it is the new symbol of Bujumbura.

A simple but original, functional and sustainable volume is proposed. The patio enclosures become the roof. The light and transparent facades close the market on all four sides. The entire market is elevated above the parking floor.

The movement of air in a tornado was the inspiration for the cover design. Below, an open market space is projected, perforated by patios that allow the entry of natural light and the circulation of air inside. Market squares are created around the patios where social life is concentrated.

Each plaza opens to the different sections of the market: food, textiles, chemicals. From these points the distribution and circulation of the market is organized, which at the same time is based on lines that are a continuation of the streets and buildings. This turns the project into an extension of the neighborhood.

The market is always full of colors and smells. It is proposed to use this characteristic in the design of the facades in the form of irregular vertical slats. This design invites everyone to enter, reflects the function of the building and warns of what we will find inside: an explosion of colors. It also allows natural light penetration and air circulation inside.

The access plaza in the form of a ramp becomes a meeting, rest and fun point for the little ones. The ramp invites people and takes them to the market entrance, allowing visitors to interact with the architecture and observe it in different ways.