CROSS STREET MARKET REDEVELOPMENT | Baltimore, Md

Reconnecting a Baltimore Landmark

The Challenge: 

Cross Street Market has long been a beloved institution, but over time, it had become inwardly focused, disconnected from the vibrant street life of Federal Hill. The challenge was to reimagine this historic market, not just as a place to shop, but as a true community hub that actively engages with its neighborhood. We tasked ourselves with creating a bold design concept that would breathe new life into the market and restore its place as the heart of the community and inform what could be.

The FADE Approach: 

Our journey began with a single, transformative idea. As Architects, we proposed a radical intervention: to remove the center of the existing building, creating a new public crossing that physically and visually connects the adjacent streets. This new "main street" through the market would be lined with vendors and lead to a new "Food Deck"—a flexible outdoor space for seating, block parties, and concerts, transforming the market from a simple building into a dynamic, porous network of public spaces [cite: J.Neal Design - Cross Street Market - Design Concept.pdf]. Our Development vision included an independently supported second floor for efficient vendor storage and administration, along with a roof structure designed for solar panels and water retention, adding ecological and economic resilience to the historic landmark.

The Outcome: 

The result of this conceptual design process is a compelling new vision for Cross Street Market. Our proposal transforms it from a monolithic structure into an open, interactive, and sustainable destination. By carving a new path through its center and creating dynamic indoor-outdoor spaces, the design reestablishes the market as a true crossroads for the community. It's a vision that honors the market's history while boldly equipping it for a more connected, vibrant, and sustainable future.

We have the expertise to combine architecture and development to create a compelling new vision for your urban project. Let's begin the design process for your space.