The pavilions create an inviting and warm meeting place in the renovated Turku Market Square.
The project was co-designed by Schauman u0026 Nordgren Architects.
The idea behind the design was to create unique and open meeting places that serve both during and after the opening hours of the market. The aim has been to improve services for a wide range of user groups by connecting the pavilions to the underground car park Toriparkki with stairs and lifts and by providing break areas for local transport drivers. The pavilions also serve as restaurants and cafés.
The design of the pavilions is inspired by the trees surrounding the square. Their organic roof shapes create sheltered spaces in the open area, like the treetops in a forest. The wooden façades of the central parts of the buildings act as a tree trunk, revealed by the large glass façades.
The project’s challenge was to coordinate the demanding architecture with the surface of the market square. The market pavilions won the 2022 Steel Structure of the Year Award and the design was the winner of the 2023 Wood Award in the public vote category.
