CallisonRTKL prioritized easy navigation and a welcoming environment for the Homepark Food Market, a space that draws inspiration from the rural food stands along the river in Chengdu.

Global architecture, design, and strategy firm CallisonRTKL (CRTKL) recently completed HomePark Chengdu, the latest food market to hit the scene within the Chengdu Grand Shopping Center. Inspired by one of China’s most renowned paintings “Along the River During the Qingming Festival”, CRTKL modeled the food market to exemplify a modern twist on life over 3,000 years ago.

The layout of the space represents the rural food stands that existed along gondola rivers to various residential bungalows in the lively ancient town. The artful clouds-in-the-sky graphic flows throughout the walls that are covered in poetry documenting the lost art of children reciting poetry with their elderly relatives. Block-printed banners pay homage to the vendor signage used 3,000 years ago to showcase open produce stands displaying fruits and vegetables in locally crafted baskets. The essence of China’s history is being transformed with a modern twist–– Homepark Chengdu’s design makes life in a historical small town feel relatable to today’s modern life.

As flexible hospitality enters the food hall sector, HomePark Chengdu allows chefs and brands to promote themselves and educate guests in an ever-evolving space. Post-pandemic, HomePark Chengdu will serve as an intentional social gathering space that educates guests on history, culture, and health. The food hall’s sensory elements give guests many opportunities to touch, smell, taste, see, and hear the ancient local culture. Standout features are the produce, nutrition, and cooking experts stationed throughout the market that help customers understand and take charge of what they eat.

Design: CallisonRTKL Photography: courtesy of CallisonRTKL

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