There’s a new market and gathering space heading to Coconut Grove called MKTplace at Goombay Plaza, a project led by the University of Miami School of Architecture with support from city and county commissioners and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

The market will be comprised of modified shipping containers, utilizing moveable incubator structures to house prepared food, entrepreneurs, and vendors. The physical concept can be likened to Wynwood’s Charcoal Garden Bar + Grill, whose structure is also made of modified shipping containers.

The market will be located on the corner of Grand Avenue and Douglas Road and was designed to attract entrepreneurs, creatives, and civic leaders.

“MKTplace was launched to unleash the power of placemaking to create great gathering places that can act as a catalyst for community building and economic exchange,” adds UM School of Architecture Director Dr. Charles Bohl. “Local entrepreneurs are typically frustrated by the high costs of commercial space and barriers to entry for accessing markets and growing their businesses.

“Through lighter, quicker and cheaper interventions, the project activates vacant space in underserved neighborhoods by providing inexpensive incubator space and a venue for community events, arts and culture, and everyday socializing.”

The initial phase will debut in the Fall and consist of a weekly pop-up offering 15-20 vendors every Friday for a month.