wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico

the vaulted structures by aidia studio improve airflow and passive cooling within the space.

AIDIA STUDIO edited by christina vergopoulou March 5, 2025 4 min

Nicolás Bravo market by aidia studio blends with vegetation

AIDIA STUDIO‘s Mercado Nicolás Bravo serves as a crafts market of artisanal goods and fresh produce, supporting the local community. The project is part of a government-funded urban improvement initiative aimed at connecting the tourism industry with the economic needs of communities in the Yucatán Peninsula. The market contributes to the preservation of local identity and heritage in Nicolás Bravo, a municipality in Quintana Roo with a population of under 5,000. In addition to commercial functions, the space serves as a community center, hosting cultural events and workshops.

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 1 — all images courtesy of AIDIA STUDIO

AIDIA STUDIO’s market design utilizes steel, concrete, and bricks

Mercado Nicolás Bravo project by architectural design agency AIDIA STUDIO emphasizes durability and low maintenance, integrating construction techniques and materials that enhance the building’s longevity. The structure consists of four primary elements: a lightweight steel framework, pigmented reinforced concrete slabs and parapets, colored concrete blocks, and clay bricks used for roofing and pavement. The market is organized within an 8-by-8-meter structural grid, covering a total footprint of 7,700 sqm and accommodating 50 vendor stalls.

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 2 — the market follows an 8-by-8-meter structural grid, spanning a total area of 7,700 sqm

Mercado Nicolás Bravo incorporates a vaulted roofing system

A vaulted roofing system spans across the space, incorporating a series of hyperbolic paraboloid forms resembling inverted umbrellas. This configuration enhances structural efficiency while integrating passive cooling strategies. Two internal courtyards introduce natural ventilation and greenery into the layout. AIDIA STUDIO’s design approach balances architectural form-finding with biophilic principles, establishing a connection between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 3 — the roof design consists of hyperbolic paraboloid forms resembling inverted umbrellas

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 4 — a vaulted roof system spans the market, forming a dynamic architectural feature

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 5 — the vaulted structures improve airflow and passive cooling within the space

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 6 — two internal courtyards introduce natural light and ventilation to the interior

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 7 — the open-air courtyards create a connection between the market and its surroundings

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 8 — 50 vendor stalls are arranged within the grid, optimizing space and functionality

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 9 — clay bricks are used for both the roof and pavement, reinforcing material continuity

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 10 — a lightweight steel framework forms the structural core of the building

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 11 — colored concrete blocks define the walls, adding visual depth to the structure

wavy brick roof spreads over open crafts market by aidia studio in mexico - 12 — pigmented reinforced concrete slabs and parapets enhance the building’s longevity

aidia-studio-crafts-market-mercado-nicolas-bravo-designboom-1800-2 — Mercado Nicolás Bravo fosters a built environment that aligns with local climate and cultural context

aidia-studio-crafts-market-mercado-nicolas-bravo-designboom-1800-3 — the design blends structural efficiency with biophilic principles

project info:

name: mercado nicolas bravo

architect: AIDIA STUDIO | @aidiastudio

location: Nicolas Bravo, Othón P. Blanco, Mexico

lead architects: Rolando Rodriguez Leal, Natalia Wrzask

design team: Alexis Escalante, Mariano González, Nitze Magaña, Emilio Vásquez

project coordination: José Luis Mulás

structural engineering: Project & Calc

client: SEDATU

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