After five years of refurbishment works Mercat del Ninot, the most important municipal market of the Eixample izquierdo reopened earlier this year. Consisting of 4,000 sq.m. of retail space accommodating 81 stands (48 of which are food related) together with a new supermarket located within the basement the emphasis of the new project has been to provide a gastronomic space where shoppers can taste the food as well as take it home. Designed by Barcelona architect Josep Lluís Mateo the approach has been true to the industrial character of the building, maintaining the sense of space of the space and the original metal truss structure while incorporating state-of-the art contemporary facilities and services. Externally the most visible aspect of the project are the perforated metal screens of the facade which also function as shutters for a series of perimeter shops. Opening hours from 8 am through till 21.15 from Monday to Saturday.