Yi Market Commercial Space

Yi Market Commercial Space

Yi Market Commercial Space is an innovative subterranean retail environment spanning approximately 12,000 square meters, located on the B1 floor of a major urban development in Shanghai, designed by Shen Junwei and completed in 2019. This sophisticated commercial space masterfully addresses the challenge of attracting visitors to an underground marketplace through its distinctive design concept inspired by hidden forestry undergrowth. The space employs a harmonious blend of natural materials including terra cotta brick, stone, terrazzo, wood aluminum board, and stainless steel to create an immersive environment that evokes the tranquility of a forest setting. The design's centerpiece features a fortitude wall extending through multiple levels, complemented by a 35-meter height escalator, creating a dramatic rocky landscape effect enhanced by carefully orchestrated lighting that mimics dappled sunlight filtering through forest canopy. The project, which earned a Silver A' Design Award in Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design, exemplifies a successful marriage of commercial functionality with biophilic design principles. Its earth-tone color palette and precise geographical spatial composition create a serene atmosphere that encourages urban inhabitants to reconnect with nature while engaging in commercial activities. The design philosophy emphasizes the creation of a space that symbolizes the original status of life, successfully balancing solitude and prosperity in a highly condensed residential area, while encouraging visitors to discover beauty in the poetic tranquility of everyday life.

commercial space design, underground retail environment, biophilic architecture, urban marketplace, sustainable interior design, contemporary retail design

— Adam Dawson