ASSESSING THE PHYSICAL AND FUNCTIONAL CONDITIONS OF MELATI

Abstract

Traditional markets remain critical socio-economic infrastructures in rapidly urbanizing cities across Southeast Asia; however, many face functional decline due to spatial inefficiencies, deteriorating physical conditions, and competition from modern retail systems. Despite increasing revitalization initiatives, limited empirical research systematically links physical and functional performance assessments to evidence-based revitalization strategies. This study addresses this gap by assessing the physical and functional conditions of Melati Traditional Market in Medan City and examining how these conditions influence its performance as a socio-economic public space. Using a mixed-method approach, the research integrates site analysis, spatial configuration assessment, environmental performance observation, activity mapping, and stakeholder interviews. The findings reveal three interrelated structural challenges: (1) fragmented spatial organization and circulation conflicts between pedestrians, vendors, and logistics flows; (2) inadequate environmental quality, including poor sanitation, ventilation, and lighting; and (3) limited provision of inclusive public space that constrains social interaction and community engagement. These conditions significantly reduce operational efficiency, user comfort, and the market’s competitiveness within the urban retail landscape. The study contributes to the literature by proposing a performance-based evaluation framework that links physical-spatial diagnostics with socio-economic functionality, offering a transferable assessment model for traditional market revitalization in emerging cities. The findings provide evidence-informed directions for integrated revitalization strategies that prioritize spatial restructuring, environmental