BORUSAN MUSIC HOUSE
2009
The design for the Borusan Music House diagrid of steel beams was the basis for an architectural strategy facilitating the realization of state-of-the-art music and exhibition space within the historical fabric of Istanbul’s 19th-century district of Beyoğlu on Istiklal Avenue. The building’s architecture transforms the historic neo-classic building retaining its façade but facilitating its new functions through a completely new structure. The historical connection between the building and its context seeks to retain to continuity with the past while instilling new functions that are facilitated through this interior structure giving fresh life to the building and the district.
The steel beams of the diagrid allow the load of the building to be carried at the perimeter of the building allowing for open and flexible floor plans to facilitate exhibitions and music. More so this structure while important in realizing the building’s new functions is visible only at street level disappearing behind the neo-classic façade on the upper floors in an understanding of the limited role modern architecture can provide in this historical setting dominated by Istanbul’s 19th century past. Yet the architects understood that while it was critical to suppress urges towards strict modernism there were more subtle efforts to infuse the building with contemporary design. An elaborate lighting program placed within the diagrid displays this building within the building at night while a rooftop of stepped terrace takes advantage of views towards the Bosphorus and rooftops of the neighboring building.
Awards:
2012 Highly Recommended Public Service Architecture for Borusan Music and Art House for Europe, International Property Awards
2011 Best Alternative Investments for the Borusan Music and Art House, ArkiPARC
2011 International Architecture Award for the Borusan Music and Art House, Chicago Athenaeum and Europe Architecture Centre
