Pike Place Market Master Plan
Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority
HR&A led a multidisciplinary team to develop a comprehensive Master Plan for Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market, addressing financial sustainability, declining farmer presence, and shifting visitor demographics. Working with the Pike Place Market Preservation & Development Authority, we delivered a strategic roadmap to revitalize the Market by embracing Pacific Northwest “Food Life” and reconnecting with local audiences.
Facing evolving challenges including financial strains, decreased farmer participation, deteriorating infrastructure, and a shift toward tourism-centric visitation, Pike Place Market required a transformative strategy to secure its future as Seattle’s beloved public marketplace. HR&A assembled and directed a specialized team—including MRA International for destination development, Mithun for design expertise, and BERK Consulting for community engagement—to craft a holistic revitalization approach. Our process integrated extensive stakeholder outreach, global public market best practices analysis, and comprehensive assessment of the Market’s financial, physical, and operational constraints.
The resulting Master Plan centers on cultivating authentic Pacific Northwest “Food Life” experiences to rebuild local patronage while ensuring the Market’s long-term viability. The strategy outlines specific interventions including curated food and retail offerings, entrepreneurial support systems, and targeted physical improvements to enhance wayfinding, accessibility, and sustainability. Additionally, the plan strengthens the Market’s social impact through strategic partnerships and governance refinements. By providing a detailed implementation roadmap covering tenanting strategies, capital investments, revenue generation mechanisms, and organizational restructuring, HR&A has equipped Pike Place Market with a comprehensive framework to honor its historic legacy while adapting to contemporary urban marketplace demands.
