Last 25 January 2016, the Municipality of Santa Cruz in Zambales led by Mayor Consolacion Marty held a groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed Public Market. The event was also graced by Architect-Urban Planner Felino A. Palafox, Jr. to represent Palafox Architecture Group, who rendered the design of the structure.
The redevelopment design for the Public Market centers on three important principles: accessibility, place-making, and efficient use of space. Public markets exist to fulfill a public purpose and showcasing a community’s unique character. The market is surrounded by small retail and commercial establishments. Two main considerations of Palafox Architecture are: (1) how to accommodate the steady influx of shoppers and owners navigating the 500 stalls within the market; and (2) how the end-users intend to utilize the given space.
Festive colors are used in the façade of the “wet and dry” market as a reflection of the colorful Philippine culture as well as the natural beauty of Santa Cruz, which is surrounded by mountain ranges, coastal lands, plains, forests, and rivers. Situated at the region known as the “Rice Bowl of the Philippines”, the Public Market is integral to the daily lives of the people. Cold storage, solar panels, and a vegetable garden on the roof deck add to the convenience of the vendors. Natural ventilation and lighting are also maximized through the use of porous walls and an iconic skylight roof.
As the groundbreaking marks the start of construction, the Santa Cruz Public Market is expected to be completed within the first quarter of 2017.