In 2008, Futurecity devised a destination strategy that redefined Spitalfields as a “market of culture”. Originally a market for livestock, fruit and vegetables, the strategy reinterpreted this legacy through a series of new cultural and spatial interventions.

The “market of culture” approach proposed the naming and design of six bespoke sculptural gateways, alongside a kinetic light and colour wayfinding system. This was supported by a coordinated signage system for retail units, integrated wayfinding, a typographic artwork for the electricity substation, and the infrastructure required to support festivals and live events.

Futurecity also brokered substantial sponsorship and support from Ballymore to bring the Kinetica Museum to Spitalfields as an anchor arts partner, housed within a new glass pavilion. This creative base, combined with a live arts programme, played a key role in animating the market and establishing it as a cultural destination.

Today, Spitalfields is one of London’s major meeting places and cultural destinations, home to creative industries, vintage retail, galleries and independent restaurants and bars, supported by a year-round programme of events. These have ranged from music festivals and skateboarding competitions to fashion expos and food fairs.

The redevelopment has received numerous awards, including UK’s Best Private Market from the National Association of British Markets, and was commended in the Mayor of London’s Planning Awards 2013/14.

Photography by Ron Bambridge with additional images from Ballymore