Champaign, Illinois is a diverse and dynamic city that offers a unique blend of urban and suburban lifestyles. With a population of approximately 87,000, the city is home to a mix of college students, young professionals, families, and retirees.
One of the defining features of daily life in Champaign is the strong presence of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. As one of the top public universities in the United States, the university brings a youthful energy to the city, with students from around the world attending classes, participating in research projects, and enjoying the social scene.
The downtown area of Champaign is a hub of activity, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops that cater to a range of tastes and budgets. Residents can enjoy everything from international cuisine to classic American comfort food, and there are also several breweries and bars that offer a lively nightlife.
But, Champaign is missing a central gathering area for people to dwell and for community events. This project thus proposes a market hall that doubles as a semi-enclosed interior but public space for citizens to use.