Yi Market: A Forest-Inspired Urban Oasis

Shen Junwei's Award-Winning Design Transforms Commercial Space into a Tranquil Retreat

Shen Junwei's design for the Yi Market is a masterful blend of light and shade, reminiscent of the dappled sunlight filtering through a forest canopy. The earthy tones, simple spatial composition, and unpretentious design elements create a calming atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the usual hustle and bustle of urban markets. The design encourages visitors to slow down, enjoy the simple pleasures of fresh food, and appreciate the beauty of nature.

The Yi Market's unique design features are made possible through the use of various materials, including terra cotta brick, stone, terrazzo, wood, aluminum board, and stainless steel. These materials help to create the impression of a forest, with the fortitude wall in the atrium mimicking a rocky landscape and the 35-meter high escalator evoking a journey through the woods.

Located on the B1 floor of Orient Yide City in Shanghai, the Yi Market is both secluded and accessible. Despite its lack of direct metro connection, the market is situated in the heart of a densely populated residential area. The project, which began in August 2018 and was completed in April 2019, offers a unique shopping experience that combines solitude and prosperity.

One of the main challenges Shen Junwei faced in designing the Yi Market was attracting customers to this hidden, narrow lane underworld and encouraging them to linger. The solution was to create a space that not only offers fresh gourmet food but also a tranquil environment that revives the inherited atmosphere of urban lifestyle. The whole space symbolizes the original status of life, encouraging people to discover the beauty and charm embedded in the tranquil face of life.

The Yi Market's design has been recognized with the prestigious Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2020. This award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. Shen Junwei's design for the Yi Market is a testament to his artistic skill and technical expertise, offering a unique, nature-inspired retreat in the heart of a bustling city.