South Melbourne Market External Food Hall

The South Melbourne Market External Food Hall, designed by Bourke and Bouteloup Architects, is a notable addition to Melbourne’s historic South Melbourne Market. Completed in 2022, this innovative structure enhances the market’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Strategically located at the York Street entrance, the External Food Hall transforms a previously underutilized area into a vibrant, undercover dining space. This development provides patrons with increased seating capacity and a versatile venue for events and community gatherings, seamlessly connecting the York Street carpark to the bustling Food Hall.

The architectural design employs Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) principles, ensuring efficient construction with minimal disruption to market activities. The structure features prefabricated timber elements, including lattice timber components and ‘A’-frame supports, which were precision-crafted off-site and assembled on location. This approach not only expedited the building process but also minimized the need for extensive footings, preserving the site’s integrity.

Aesthetically, the canopy draws inspiration from traditional market palettes, serving as a contemporary icon that reflects the market’s rich heritage. The ‘A’-frame design directs views both into and out of the space, fostering a sense of openness and community. Incorporating skylights and thoughtful lighting solutions, the space offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the overall market experience.

The project received funding from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program and was one of seven initiatives by the City of Port Phillip aimed at improving community infrastructure and supporting local employment. In recognition of its innovative design and community impact, the Food Hall was named a finalist in the 11th Annual Architizer A+ Awards in the +Low Cost Design category.

The South Melbourne Market External Food Hall exemplifies how thoughtful design and strategic planning can revitalize public spaces, enriching community engagement and preserving cultural heritage.