When the new Portage Zhang Farmers Market opened in May, it introduced more than just a new location for local vendors. It established a permanent community destination designed to bring people together, support small businesses, and create a vibrant gathering space for residents and visitors throughout Southwest Michigan.
Located adjacent to the Zhang Senior Center, the market was developed through a collaborative effort between the City of Portage, Penchura LLC, Abonmarche, Quest Design Build, Charles & Lynn Chen-Zhang, and Poligon. Working closely with the project team, Poligon designed and supplied three custom open-air steel pavilion structures that serve as the centerpiece of the new facility.
Early in the design process, the City of Portage requested a farmers market structure with a curved roofline and timber accents, while providing a welcoming space for vendors and visitors alike. The team explored several design concepts before ultimately settling on an undulating roofline complemented by outrigger roofs. This approach created a distinctive architectural feature while providing additional shade and weather protection for vendors throughout the market.
Beyond aesthetics, the structures were designed to support the market's operational needs. Integrated features include electrical service, lighting, signage, and a complete gutter and downspout system, creating a functional and comfortable environment for both vendors and guests.
The new market features 50 covered vendor stalls, dedicated space for food trucks, areas for live entertainment, public seating, and accessible walkways. These amenities create a flexible destination that supports weekly markets while accommodating a variety of community activities and special events year-round.
Since 2016, the Portage Farmers Market has connected residents with local farmers, food producers, and artisan entrepreneurs. With its new permanent home, vendors now benefit from reliable weather protection and improved functionality, while visitors enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience.
At the heart of the project are three custom Poligon steel structures designed to provide long-term performance with minimal maintenance. Unlike temporary canopies or seasonal shelters, permanent pavilion structures deliver consistent protection from sun, rain, and changing weather conditions while maintaining the open-air atmosphere that makes farmers' markets inviting and accessible.
Quest Design Build of Grand Rapids installed the project. Before installation, the general contractor participated in Poligon's installation training program, ensuring the structures were assembled efficiently and to project specifications. This collaborative approach helped streamline construction and contributed to the successful completion of the market.
The Portage Zhang Farmers Market serves more than 30,000 visitors annually and hosts more than 40 vendors offering locally grown produce, artisan foods, baked goods, flowers, handcrafted products, and specialty items. The market has become an important platform for small businesses, helping local entrepreneurs connect directly with customers and grow their presence within the community.
Visitors can enjoy fresh seasonal produce, local products, food trucks, and live music, creating an experience that extends beyond shopping. By encouraging residents to buy local and support small businesses, the market strengthens the regional economy while fostering meaningful community connections.
The Portage Zhang Farmers Market demonstrates how thoughtful design and high-quality outdoor structures can transform public spaces. Through durable steel pavilions, flexible event space, and a design tailored to the community's needs, the project provides a lasting destination that supports local commerce, encourages community engagement, and enhances the visitor experience.
By partnering with Abonmarche, Penchura LLC, the City of Portage, Charles & Lynn Chen-Zhang, and Quest Design Build, Poligon helped create a market that will continue serving residents, vendors, and visitors for years to come while providing a functional and visually distinctive gathering place for the community.