KARLIS DAMBERGS
More than a Market: How Public Markets can be
Community Destinations that Serve Civic, Social and
Physical Needs
Senior Director Kalnciema Quarter
150 tradesmen 4000 visitors/ market 100 000 visitors/ year
_________________________ Riga: one million inhabitants
• How a private space can contribute society: becoming open and public space;
• Raising proOile of whole neighborhood by becoming one of the city’s creative districts;
• Raising awareness and communicating values: long term impact on society;
• Shortening of food chains and carrying out quality control of produce; • Raising awareness of the value of local products, slow-‐food movement; • Creating a network of dedicated farmers, producers, artisans; • Place of inspiration: acting as a hub for new initiatives and innovative products;
• Successfully linking local food, culture and community life; • Success of the market – synergies and multi-‐functionality; • Powerful tool of success: social media/ being online.