Program : Office Design, 320 sqm
Location : Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey
Design : İpek Baycan
Category : Office
Year : 2019
The office space designed for the association in Turkey, located near İstiklal Street in Taksim, occupies a historically significant building with distinct architectural features such as decorative carton pierre, ceiling ornaments, arched windows, and ornate window/door frames. The building's rich character and historical value inspired the designers to preserve its existing elements while enhancing them with a project that adds contemporary value.
Given the association's modern and critical stance on current social issues in Turkey, the design approach prioritized preserving the old building's integrity while creating a contemporary office environment. The "identity" of the office, reflecting the association's mission and values, guided every aspect of the design process.
The goal was to integrate modern functionality and aesthetics seamlessly into the historical setting, respecting and highlighting the building's unique features. This approach not only preserves the architectural heritage but also creates a conducive space for the association to carry out its social responsibility projects and raise awareness effectively.
The office, spanning 320 square meters, includes a meeting room, a chief's office, a public lounge, a shared kitchen space, and four working areas. The design focuses on enhancing productivity and fostering interaction among employees through thoughtful planning of the entrance, circulation areas, public spaces like the kitchen, and terraces.
At the entrance, a welcoming board sets the tone for the office's character. It prominently displays the association's core issues and values, such as sustainability and human rights. This board also features endangered species of plants, each housed in pots containing "seed balls." These seed balls are intended to raise awareness about endangered plant species crucial for bee conservation. Visitors are encouraged to take these seed balls and scatter them in urban areas, promoting "guerrilla gardening" to increase green spaces and support biodiversity.
This initiative not only aligns with the association's mission but also invites visitors to actively participate in environmental conservation efforts. It serves as a symbol of the office's commitment to sustainability and community engagement, fostering a sense of responsibility towards nature's well-being.
In designing the office plan and workflow for the association located near İstiklal Street in Taksim, the focus was on fostering collaboration among employees who work closely together. The layout and furnishings of the workstations were personalized to accommodate the daily rituals and needs of each employee, ensuring flexibility and functionality.
Flexible workstations are central to the office interiors, featuring integrated bookshelves as essential elements. Reflecting the association's political and sociological approach, as well as a commitment to sustainability, materials such as bamboo, cork, and felt were chosen for furniture design. These materials not only contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere but also align with eco-friendly practices.
Public spaces within the office, such as the kitchen lounge, corridors, and terraces, are designed to encourage interaction and collaboration among team members. Niches in circulation areas serve as digital service hubs and communication shelves, while boards in the kitchen area facilitate announcements and updates.
The terraces play a dual role, featuring a daily-use compost area for recycling and a plant wall with edible plants like thyme, mint, and basil. This integration of sustainable practices and functional design elements creates a harmonious and productive workspace that reflects the association's values and promotes a positive work environment.
