Public Presentation in Covington

On Wednesday night, design/build lab presented our ideas and designs to the farmers and members of Olde Town Covington, as well as to some of the volunteers for the project.

We also explained the process we will be using to construct. We will be prefabricating the structure of the building, roof, and market floor off-site in a location in Blacksburg. Simultaneously, the ground and foundations for the market space will be prepared in Covington. Once the ground and foundations are ready, the modular pieces constructed in our Blacksburg facility will be transported up to Covington for assembly on-site.

The presentation lead to friendly conversation with those who attended because of the enthusiasm from the farmers and Olde Town Covington.

City Council Meeting, February 8th

On Tuesday, February 8th, Covington City Council approved the site plan for the Covington Farmer's Market. Design/build lab can now begin construction by prefabricating off-site in Blacksburg.

Market Proposal: Translucence

A translucent membrane reflects the delicate curve and allows for the passage of light while functioning as a protective skin. Rectilinear members create the experience of a curved surface.

Proposal for Master Plan

This is a proposal for the master plan of the market. This will dictate the general layout of the market, green space, and parking area for the market. We are working mostly off of this arrangement to make a final proposal for the market. Our final design may not be exactly the same in plan, but this master scheme will definitely influence our proposal.

Market Proposal: Slabs

A projection of the site’s terrain represented by a series of slabs suspended at varying alignments and heights to form a roof. These thick slabs will be oriented to allow a certain quality of light to penetrate through the roof and into the market space. The aim of this is to exercise the idea that a light and airy space can be created underneath these seemingly heavy slabs.

Market Proposal: Terraces

By using the natural slope of the landscape to form sloping terraces that carve through the site, we were able to create natural seating. The continuity of the terraces throughout the site emphasizes the connection between the green space and the market. The slope of the terraces inform the slope and levels of the roof.

Market Proposal: Folds

what are the best parts of life?
those that make sense.
what are the best rules in society?
those that make sense.
what are the best architectural designs?
those that make sense.


do we know completely why they make sense?

does it matter?

lose the reasons, keep the feeling.



the building folds,
like the mountains,
like the landscape.


it rises from the earth to shelter like a tree, and like a tree, it maintains structure while being unique.

it adds character, without ruining its surroundings.