WEAVING CULTURE INTO ARCHITECTURE
Location: Nairobi, Kariokor Market Grounds.
Project Duration: 2022-2023
Project Team: Ngochi Contractors Ltd
Project Inspiration: African Woven Basket
Markets as public spaces are more than just places to shop; they’re stories told through sound, space, and tradition. In 2022, our team at Ngochi Contractors Ltd. was honored to submit a design proposal for Kariokor Market, one of Nairobi’s most vibrant and iconic commercial hubs.
A Design Rooted in Context
Our vision was clear: we wanted to honor Kariokor’s unique legacy. Instead of replicating the sterile look of a shopping mall, our goal was to infuse the existing market with identity, vibrancy, and functionality. We started by immersing ourselves in the daily rhythms of Kariokor. Since weaving is the predominant trade in the area, we didn’t just reference it—we celebrated it architecturally.
Nairobi Kariokor Market Proposal
Nairobi Kariokor Market Proposal
Nairobi Kariokor Market Proposal
Nairobi Kariokor Market Proposal
The Woven Facade: Culture in Form
The façade was more than just artistic. Its design allowed for natural light and airflow, creating a space that is breathable, bright, and grounded in local craftsmanship. The design was all about functional elegance, emphasizing purpose over unnecessary modern embellishments. Ultimately, it was a way to integrate passive lighting and ventilation systems while reflecting the market’s cultural identity.
Our scope of work included a full architectural design proposal with a spatial layout and façade concept. We also focused on budget efficiency by utilizing local and sustainable materials. Most importantly, the layout was designed to be community-centric, making it easy for people to move, trade, and interact.
Scope of Work:
- Full architectural design proposal including spatial layout and façade concept.
- Functional Elegance: Emphasizing purpose over unnecessary modern embellishments.
- Cultural Identity: A façade inspired by traditional crafts.
- Environmental Design: Integrated passive lighting and ventilation systems.
- Budget Efficiency: Utilization of local and sustainable materials.
- Community-Centric Layout: Designed for easy movement, trade, and interaction.
Why This Design Matters?
As Kenya modernizes, what happens to its cultural identity? With Kariokor, we saw a chance to do something different—a design that feels authentic and truly listens to the community. This design respects tradition while also serving modern needs. Urban design doesn’t have to erase what came before. It can, with intention, elevate it. The Kariokor market proposal was our way of doing just that.
Interested in Reimagining Public Spaces in Kenya?
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