Sean Diaz
California State University Long Beach
Professor: Eduardo Perez
Third Space Market is a community-focused initiative in Orange County, California, designed to create a vibrant “third space” for social interaction, creativity, and cultural preservation. By integrating a marketplace, makerspace, and event center, it fosters collaboration and supports local artisans through educational programs. Housed in a historic citrus packing house, the project honors the region’s heritage while contributing to downtown revitalization efforts. It serves as a modern platform for community engagement and sustainable development.
Third Space Market
Welcome to Third Space Market, a visionary project aimed at redefining community spaces in the heart of Orange County, California. Inspired by the principles of sustainability, collaboration, and cultural preservation, this multifaceted initiative seeks to create a vibrant “third space” that serves as a hub for community engagement, creativity, and learning.
The concept of a “third space” in sociology refers to a social environment distinct from the home (first space) and the workplace (second space). These third spaces serve as crucial settings for informal and community interaction, contributing to the social fabric of a community. By seamlessly integrating a marketplace, makerspace, and event center, the goal of Third Space Market is to foster a dynamic environment where residents can shop for unique goods, engage in hands-on workshops, and connect through a diverse array of events and activities.
At the heart of this project is a commitment to preserving traditional artisan crafts through educational initiatives and skill-sharing programs, ensuring the community’s rich cultural heritage thrives for generations to come. Every person who enters Third Space Market plays a part in co-creating a space that embodies the essence of community, collaboration, and creativity.
Located on the edge of the historic Plaza District in the city of Orange, California, Third Space Market supports the city’s downtown revitalization efforts. Anchored in Orange County’s rich heritage, this project aligns strategically with urban planning objectives, especially those focused on fostering vibrant community spaces and promoting sustainable development through adaptive reuse.
Housed within the historic walls of a former citrus packing house dating back to the early 1900s, Third Space Market pays homage to the region’s citrus industry legacy. This project seeks not only to preserve the past but also to breathe new life into it, providing a modern platform for community engagement while honoring the timeless spirit of Orange County’s storied history.
