The update of the Zhytniy Market is not just a renovation, but a comprehensive rethinking of the space, aiming to preserve its authenticity and function while transforming it into a modern and convenient place for both Kyiv residents and tourists. Built in the 1980s, this unique example of Soviet modernism holds significant historical and cultural value. The massive concrete roof and decorative panels on the facade remain unchanged, preserving the building’s authenticity. The update focuses on improving the interior space, while the roof shape and market silhouette remain unchanged, and no additional constructions are planned.
The main task is to preserve and emphasize the building’s modernist look, improve its functionality, and ensure comfort for all workers and visitors. “This is one of the most interesting examples of modernism in Kyiv. We preserve its structure, but enhance the space to meet modern requirements,” say the project authors.
Zhytniy Market is an architectural gem of Podil, and our project involves a major overhaul without altering the structure, with improvements to accessibility and the functionality of the space.
The market is currently in a critical condition: the building is aging, the roof leaks, the walls are peeling, there is no ventilation, the floors are broken, and the facade glazing does not meet current energy efficiency requirements, leading to significant heat losses. The engineering systems are almost non-functional, and the area surrounding the market is chaotically surrounded by informal parking.
The updated Zhytniy Market will become not just a place for purchasing food, but a full-fledged urban space that combines various functions for the comfort of Kyiv residents and tourists.
The underground floor will be equipped with a modern shelter, parking for visitors and workers, storage rooms, laboratories for assessing product quality, refrigeration chambers for storing goods to be sold on the upper floors. There will also be unloading zones, management and security rooms, and technical spaces for the market’s operations.
The first floor, with an atrium in the center, will become a multifunctional zone, capable of adapting to different needs. It will house flower shops, cafes, gastronomic projects, and delivery zones. This decision will not only complement the market’s functionality but also stimulate visitor flow, enhancing trade.
The second floor will remain a classic food zone with farmers’ products, fresh fish, meat, vegetables, and other food and non-food items from producers across Ukraine. There will also be a café with a view of St. Andrew’s Church. With the use of projectors, the ceiling lighting will change depending on the season, special events at the market, or holidays.
The inner courtyard will be transformed into a multifunctional space for hosting fairs, concerts, lectures, and cultural events, becoming an important part of public life.
The third floor will house greenhouses with seedlings, the products of which will later be sold at the market, a fitness center, a café with a relaxation area, and a restaurant. This will allow visitors to not only shop but also spend time relaxing.
The old engineering system of Zhytniy Market consumes a lot of energy, lacks automation, and is inefficient. All processes are manually controlled, which increases the risk of errors. Its flexibility is limited, and changes require significant costs. Additionally, the system has a negative impact on the environment due to high emissions.
The new system is focused on energy efficiency, automation, and the use of smart technologies. It reduces energy consumption, improves comfort, and has a lower environmental impact. Furthermore, the system is flexible and easily upgradable, allowing for changes without significant expenses.
The new ventilation system ensures efficient air exchange with heat recovery, returning up to 90% of heat and significantly reducing heating costs. Automation regulates oxygen levels and prevents drafts, while built-in sound insulation reduces noise levels. Although the initial installation costs are higher, the system quickly pays for itself through savings on energy resources.
The update of Zhytniy Market will include not only changes inside the building but also a significant modernization of the surrounding area. Chaotic parking will be removed, and organized transport zones will be created in its place. The pedestrian zone and bike lane will replace part of the asphalted surfaces, which will reduce the environmental load and make the area more comfortable for people. More greenery, including trees and plantings, will beautify the space, adding aesthetics and improving the atmosphere.
To ensure inclusivity, elevators for people with limited mobility will be installed, as well as inclusive paving and accessible sidewalks. The currently unorganized public transport stop will be relocated closer to the market. We will create a comfortable waiting area with all the necessary amenities for visitors, making the market more accessible and convenient for everyone.
The ceiling of Zhytniy Market will become a unique digital art space that will attract attention and serve as a true Instagram magnet. This will be a place not only for shopping but also for inspiration and discovery. We are developing an interactive gallery with educational and entertainment content that will be constantly updated, engaging visitors and creating new experiences.
This dynamic element will emphasize the uniqueness of Zhytniy Market, complementing the atmosphere with a variety of art exhibitions. For maximum functionality, we will create three operating modes for the ceiling: everyday, for edutainment (educational and entertainment events), and for hosting concerts. This will turn the market into not just a shopping hub but also a cultural center, where every visitor will find something new for themselves.
The update of Zhytniy Market is a joint initiative of the RЕІТ-company Inzhur, the architectural and engineering company AVR Development, and the international consulting agency Colliers.
On February 25, 2025, a public presentation of the revitalization project took place on the second floor of Zhytniy Market. The event gathered over 400 Kyiv residents who had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the concept of the update. CEO of Inzhur Andriy Zhurzhiy and lead architect Yulian Chaplynskiy presented the key decisions, after which an open discussion was held, where everyone had the chance to share their thoughts and suggestions.