The Market Building

The Market Building in Berane addresses a community need for a centralized commercial hub, synergistically enhancing the planned development of the surrounding area. Historically, marketplaces have served not only as commercial centers but also as vital social gathering points for community interaction. Contemporary designs must creatively integrate these functions while incorporating additional amenities to serve the diverse needs of future generations. Inspired by the interplay of function and aesthetics, the NRA team created a design concept rooted in vernacular architecture, drawing inspiration from the traditional Dinaric house. A subtle application of deconstructivism theory results in a twisted roof, creating an irregular shape with sharp edges, modern contours, and unique aesthetic qualities. However, the building's overall form remains uncomplicated, aiming for a simple shape that could be sketched in a single fluid motion.
Location
Montenegro
City
Berane
Area
3193,17 m2
Year
2024
Status
Design

The building’s design strategically integrates traditional architectural elements with contemporary urban development principles, employing representative form and carefully selected materials. Conceptually, it offers a new direction for building practices within both the inner city and broader urban context. Its striking form and modern architectural expression position it as a potential landmark, positively influencing future spatial planning and zoning initiatives throughout the municipality. The chosen materials are integral to the design; the form, materials, and color palette constitute a unified concept, with each element interdependent and essential to the overall design.

The design incorporates the corrugated, green-painted sheet metal on the façade of the ground floor, complementing the surrounding landscape. The upper structure features two facades: a primary facade with white silicate render, and a secondary, perforated dark red sheet metal envelope. This envelope conceptually represents traditional wood shingles. Sheet metal’s cost-effectiveness, readily available supply, and ease of installation were key factors in its selection, aligning with budgetary constraints.

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The interior design incorporates fair-faced concrete and a birch wood finish. Market stalls utilize repurposed scaffolding from the Market Building’s construction, minimizing waste. These stalls are easily assembled and disassembled, with sheet metal cladding in designated areas to optimize food display space. Conceptual design incorporates features enhancing future usability and community well-being. A flat, accessible roof, particularly the green areas with strategically placed benches overlooking Jasikovac hill, will serve as a summer extension for second-floor restaurant and café operations. Furthermore, the conceptual design incorporates a planned park area and public parking lot, including a smaller paved area suitable for farmers’ markets, small gatherings, and celebrations.

Gallery

Credits

Architect
NRA Atelier
Authors
Nikola Radović, Sonja Milićević, Kristina Radović, Jovan Balandžić, Danilo Đurišić
Copyright
NRA Atelier