The Market of Knowledge
Through the Atelier’s fixed position of historical continuity, environmental sensitivity and a thorough consideration of the urban integration and cultural context of design, the Market of knowledge aims to draw upon and revitalize the traditional exchange of knowledge in the historic marketplace of Todmorden, working to combine this knowledge exchange with one that takes place in the library. By intertwining these two forms of community learning, the proposal works in regenerating interest in the town’s commerce hub whilst drawing upon wider demographics to be involved and engaged with historic makeups of the town.
This proposal focuses on community integration from the very beginning, hosting workshops that allow community members to coproduce elements of the building to encourage the wider public to understand and shape their identity through the Market of Knowledge. Artefacts produced in the workshop will then be integrated throughout the spaces in the building and showcased in the archive, strengthening the essence of the local Todmorden identity throughout the new proposed library. This is alongside the functioning extension of the marketplace that is situated on the ground floor of the proposal, allowing for the revitalization of not only vernacular architectural components but an integration of them in day-to-day function that sees its essence to live on and stand the test of time.
