Design of Costi Square Market and Revitalization of Costi Square in Gardeni, Lamu

Project idea

Revitalization of the Costi Square area in Lamu's Gardeni neighborhood through the design of a mixed-use market that harmonizes the old and new urban fabric, addressing the needs of a growing population while preserving the historic Swahili architectural character.

Project description

The project addresses the 64-acre parcel of land at the edge of Lamu old town and Gardeni, owned by Lamu county government and designated for mixed use and public purpose. The design responds to congestion caused by population increase, pressure on resources like water and sanitation, and the lack of open public spaces for the population of around 30,000 people. The market includes diverse sectors such as spice, meat and fish, tubers, cereals, vegetables, fruits, prayer hall, cosmetics, electronic repair, motorbike and carts repair, crafts-wood, crafts-weaving, crafts-pottery, services, daycare and nursing sections, washroom spaces, and open spaces. The project also incorporates a cinema hall and Costi Gallery with exhibition spaces, a washroom, curators offices, storage and reading spaces, a generator room, and an amphitheatre. The design aims to harmonize religious, economic, and social cultural aspects while providing a net zero facility where waste is recycled for farm produce including biogas plants and incineration zones.

Technical information

The proposed site is approximately 64,000 sqm. Total area demarcated is 42,500 sqm with a total number of floors allowed at 4 stories. The market layout includes Soko La Amu section (10,725 sqm) with multiple functional zones, a cinema hall component, and Costi Gallery. Grand total area is 21,597 sqm. Plot ratio equals total area demarcated of 42,500 sqm. The site is accessible by motorbikes, donkey transport, and pedestrian access paths from Matondoni via the Mururani road, from Mokowe, and from the northern side through Lamu old town. The design incorporates existing facilities such as donkey Birkas, public wells, and waste disposal systems.

Documentation

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