Elevation

Design problem

Students were challenged to design a vibrant, socially active public realm along San Francisco's Market Street in support of the city's downtown economic recovery effort. In 2023, then-San Francisco Mayor London Breed released the Roadmap To San Francisco's Future—a strategic guide with an eye toward supporting the city's economic recovery. The Roadmap To San Francisco’s Future envisions downtown as “everyone’s neighborhood,” a thriving, economically diverse 24/7 neighborhood. The San Francisco's Planning Department, in conjunction with the Office of Economic and Workforce Development and other external organizations, is focused on bringing both near- and long-term success downtown through three primary themes:

• Economic diversification and the future of office
• Expanding downtown housing
• Public life and ground floor activation

Given existing public realms, participants are asked to submit a proposal to convert one site of their choice within the downtown Market Street corridor into a highly utilized, diverse public space.

View the design brief

Student solution

The proposed solution is to elevate the plaza, creating a two-level structure where political demonstrations and public gatherings remain, but renovated and elevated, while the ground level is transformed into a vibrant market space. The lower level would provide seating and dining areas for the many workers in the surrounding institutions. Infrastructure such as water, drainage, and electricity can be integrated during the renovation to support small vendors. This setup would attract local workers and nearby residents by offering a high-quality environment and affordable, diverse, and convenient food options. On weekends, when there are no major gatherings, the market could host open-air bazaars or flea markets, drawing tourists as well. Visitors could not only explore the city's nearby cultural and historical landmarks but also experience the daily life and local atmosphere of San Francisco.