TESSERE is proud to celebrate the completion of the Green Street Downtown Market, a transformational project at the heart of Lee’s Summit, Missouri. More than a venue for local vendors, this space redefines what a farmers’ market can be – a year-round destination and place for gathering that aims to connect people, businesses, and the community.
From Vision to Reality
This idea began in 2013 as a modest $600,000 plan to provide shade the vendors and patrons of the market shade and refuge from inclement weather. Over the years, the vision expanded under the leadership of Mayor Bill Baird, ultimately growing into a $44 million public–private partnership that blends civic investment with private development.
When TESSERE was selected as master architect in 2021, our goal was clear: design a space that not only accommodated vendors, but one that would also become a destination hub for events, culture, and community connection.
A Market with More Than One Purpose
The Green Street Downtown Market is designed in a way to host current vendor demand, with the ability to grow and expand outside under the large canopy structure – creating a dynamic and unique indoor/outdoor market experience. Unlike many seasonal markets, the space is fully climate-controlled allowing for real year-round use. The layout of the building also opens the door for events like weddings, concerts, exercise classes, festivals, and watch parties – giving visitors and the citizens of Lee’s Summit a true multi-purpose venue.
More Than a Market: A Downtown Destination
Beyond vendor stalls, the project introduces a variety of amenities that make the space welcoming for all ages. The canopy shelters outdoor vendors while also creating a shaded plaza, perfect for community concerts and festivals. A vibrant playground adjacent to City Hall, mixed with plentiful seating options make this space a very family-friendly environment. The design also incorporates flexible event lawns, public art features, and an advanced lighting system that can be programmed and color-coordinated for practically any occasion. Together, these elements create a true destination, seamlessly connecting to downtown shops, restaurants, and the nearby parking garage.
Design That Honors the Past, While Looking Ahead
The Market is situated directly across from City Hall, and was once home to the historic Ice House building. Originally built in 1896, the building had sustained well over 100 years of wear and tear – including a fire that substantially damaged the timber-frame roof structure. Because of this, the building was in desperate need of a teardown since it was beyond being able to be repaired. During design, TESSERE gathered reclaimed building materials and historic imagery from the city, and incorporated them (with the help of local downtown business Fossil Forge) into an informational display piece located at the entry of the farmers market.
Additionally, the design team took cues from the Ice House by weaving historic elements (like traditional brickwork – found throughout much of the downtown area), with a modern design language centered on the main entry, which utilizes a backlit perforated metal panel system that literally glows while illuminating the approach to the building.
Beyond aesthetics, the overall design prioritizes both comfort and sustainability. Large overhead glass doors, clerestory windows, and ETFE canopy panels create a light-filled, airy environment while reducing the need for artificial lighting. A fully climate-controlled interior environment also provides a comfortable gathering space, no matter what the weather is doing outside of it.
Built for Community
Community input played a central role throughout the design process. Public forums and surveys gathered feedback from more than 1,100 residents, ensuring the Market reflected the needs and aspirations of the citizens of Lee’s Summit. Whether it was widening vendor aisles or transforming a two-way street into an active pedestrian plaza, every design move was thoughtfully crafted to give space back to the community.
A Catalyst for Downtown Vibrancy
By intentionally closing Green Street to vehicular traffic, the city repurposed the area as a pedestrian-friendly plaza. The result is not only a space that hosts the popular farmers market twice a week, while also one that enhancing the economic and social fabric of Lee’s Summit every day of the year.
The Green Street Downtown Market sets a new standard for how cities can reimagine civic spaces—not as single-purpose structures, but as year-round destinations that celebrate community and spark new growth.
