Contemporary Market Design in China: KOKO Market by Vari Architects

Harmonizing Nature, Architecture, and Subtle Urban Life

Situated within the CPI Island redevelopment in Chengdu, China, the KOKO Market by Vari Architects (2025) exemplifies contemporary market design in China that transcends transactional function to offer an immersive, poetic experience. Spanning 1,740 m², this revitalized cluster transforms two neglected showhouses into a unified market space that celebrates wood, light, greenery, and spatial flow.

Addressing the urban island's identity of gradual transformation, Vari Architects adopted philosophical ideas by Washida Kiyokazu—“Average Temperature” and “Subtle Scenery”. Their goal was to cultivate spaces that feel both everyday and ceremonial, blending human presence with delicate natural and material rhythms

Expanding Nature Through Architecture

Rather than imposing, the design favors an “intervening” approach—one rooted in ecology and humility. Wood and recycled materials soften the presence of steel structures, creating a dialogue between industrial precision and natural texture. The intention was not mimicry but an empathetic echo of nature’s subtle order .

A new infill unit at the southeast corner reshapes spatial flow and integration, forming an inward-wrapping “market space” that unfolds like a micro-topographic landscape. This approach ensures functional coherence while offering visitors a rich spatial journey.

Fluid Spatial Experience

Flowing space is central to KOKO Market's design. The plan fosters continuity—sunken courtyards blend seamlessly with landscaped surroundings, while barrier-free transitions invite lingering and interaction. Vari Architects responded to CPI Island’s evolving ecosystem with flowing architecture that grows organically, supporting a variety of market functions.

Material Sensibility and Light as Medium

Materials and light are orchestrated with careful sensitivity. Arched membrane roofs diffuse sunlight gently as though filtered through leaves, creating a serene ambiance. Exposed concrete, steel beams, warm aged wood, and climbing greenery invite natural evolution over time—an architectural embrace of seasonal change .

A Poetic Urban Marketplace

The KOKO Market by Vari Architects is more than a commercial venue—it is a contemplative gathering place shaping contemporary market design in China. Through its calm material palette, spatial fluidity, and ecological attitude, it offers a modern marketplace rooted in place, nature, and lived urban poetry.

All Photographs are works of IN-FIELD Studio, LUXELAKES Cultural Tourism ISLAND LAB, Arch-Exist