One Ortakoy

2008

In its ecological approach One & Ortaköy is a possible model for the transformation of modern architecture happening in this quickly developing European section of Istanbul. It has its primary objective to respectfully integrate with the natural characteristics of its location on the hillside and the surrounding topography by covering its volumes with natural materials and landscaping.

The large open roofs of each of the two buildings covered with landscaping provide different amenities for the use of the residents allowing for interaction with all parts of the complex. The roof that contains a walking track, pool, and recreation area has a high level of landscaping that visually integrates with the natural topography behind it creating a type of artificial topography. This roof garden conceptually combined with the landscaping on the ground floors and terrace gardens covers the broad reflective surfaces of the building reducing carbon absorption. Areas of the roof terrace covered by the extension of the Ünye stone cladding of the facade over the roof provide shade in the summer months and protection from rain in the winter.

The importance of this artificial topography and its integration into the nature of the hillside also derives from the fact that the roof and other surface elements are the most visible aspects of the building from the entrance of the Bosphorus Bridge directly above. And lastly, another important ecological feature is the rainwater collection system of the roof which is used to water the thick plant of the landscaped gardens. One & Ortaköy shows that even in Istanbul’s hodge-podge urban development of the 2010s, it’s possible to generate topographic and ecologically sensitive design while creating a visually distinct piece of architecture.

Awards:
2012 Green Good Design Awards for One & Ortakoy, The European Centre for Architecture & The Chicago Athenaeum