Saint-John, New Brunswick Market

“In Saint-John, New Brunswick, I still vividly remember my visit to the City Market, one of the oldest farmer’s markets in Canada. The market itself is an indoor open space, with high ceilings, large open windows, and plenty of natural light. The aisles are wide and inviting, making it easy to move around, and are displaying items from merchants and restaurants of different cultures. The original building dates back to the 1870s and has been lovingly preserved. The walls and floors are made of beautiful old brick, and the wooden beams are painted in bright colors. The market is often used as an outlet for local artists to hold small exhibits within their city. In fact, it also hosts a Night Market on the adjacent street expanding the buzzing activities to its surroundings. Bands and performers also often use the market to entertain the visitors creating a warm welcoming atmosphere.

One of my favorites spots within the market was the solarium, which is mainly used by visitors to have lunch, read, or take a break. This naturally lighted space provides a vibrant and animated place of encounter within the city.

When I visited the market, it was bustling, but it was also peaceful. There was a feeling of community that was clearly palpable. From the moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped by the sights and sounds of the market. Under sunlight, as I was surrounded by these different sensory experiences, it reminded me of my experience in Morocco, remembering the markets, the encounters with people, the smell of fresh produce and the sound of food cooking.

The Saint John City Market was for me a great example of how a space can be appropriated and can create a sense of belonging and engagement by its local community, contributing to a general positive experience in the built environment.”

(Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2024, p.137).

An interior shot of the Saint John City Market in the Christmas season of 2018. (Saint John City Market/Facebook). https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/saint-john-market-plan-1.6418601

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/saint-john-market-plan-1.6418601

Google map link: Saint John City Market

https://goo.gl/maps/155CYFNQ8P8p67Z77

Tamara Steele, The Germain Street entrance of the Saint John City Market. https://www.thewave.ca/2021/09/20/10-year-plan-coming-for-city-market/