Muzamil Mutalib

advisor

City University Malaysia

Malaysia

Lecturer specializing in Interior Design and Architecture, with a strong passion for blending… more

This project, Interlacing Epoch: Rethinking Tomorrow’s KDA Newmarket stands as a remarkable and sensitive architectural response to a pressing urban dilemma, how to preserve cultural heritage while revitalizing spaces to meet modern societal needs. The concept of weaving together two distinct time periods honoring the legacy of Khulna’s first market from 1960 while embracing the spatial, economic and social requirements of the present reflects a nuanced understanding of both architectural memory and urban transformation. The decision to retain the traditional exterior of the Newmarket is both symbolic and strategic. It safeguards the market’s role as a cultural landmark and an emblem of the city’s identity. At the same time, the interior is skillfully reimagined and maintaining the old structural framework while integrating new spatial qualities that enhance functionality, user comfort and flexibility. This balance between preservation and innovation showcases a deep respect for the emotional connection locals have with the space while also positioning the market as a viable commercial and civic asset for the future.

Architecturally, the use of courtyards, green terraces and pedestrian interconnectivity not only revitalizes the dying market but transforms it into a dynamic urban hub. The introduction of a central plaza serves as a connective node, offering pathways, gathering spaces and social programs that invite continuous foot traffic, thereby supporting both economic activity and community interaction. The flowing, organic geometry of the new construction contrasts yet complements the rigid modularity of the old, creating a powerful dialogue between eras.

Construction wise, the integration of old and new systems is approached with clarity and thoughtfulness. The reuse of existing structural elements minimizes waste and celebrates the longevity of the original design. Meanwhile, the new additions bring in sustainable design principles, improved accessibility and climate responsive strategies.

Ultimately, this project is more than a design proposal, it is an act of urban storytelling. It captures the essence of a place, reinvigorates its purpose and offers a model for how cities can evolve without erasing their past. It is a poetic and pragmatic contribution to the discourse on architectural continuity and a commendable example of how architecture can protect memory while shaping a hopeful future.