Istanbul Financial Center

Following the initial conceptual project designed by foreign architects, the Ministry of Economy expressed a desire to imbue the project’s facade with a more “traditional” character. Responding to this directive, we undertook a comprehensive redesign of the entire project area’s facade, drawing inspiration from Anatolia’s rich history, culture, and earlier civilizations. Historical and cultural motifs from various eras, including the Göktürk, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods, were meticulously integrated into modern building facades and the landscape. This approach created a new facade design that pays tribute to Anatolia’s heritage while embracing the aesthetics and functionality of contemporary architecture.

In 2019, the competition for the Istanbul Financial Center was won by SP Architects, who prepared a project ensuring unity of language across all stages of the facades. Detailed facade preliminary projects were prepared for all buildings in the Banks Stage. For Stage 1 (Borsa Istanbul) and Stage 3 (ÖPA), all architectural drawings and coordination efforts were carried out. SP Architects also managed the entire architectural process of the SPK and Borsa Istanbul buildings, as well as the overall landscape project of the Istanbul Financial Center and the interior projects of the shopping mall. Coordination between site management and all authors was ensured.

Design Philosophy

• Seljuk Stage: Inspired by the legacy of the Turks, whose roots lie in Central Asia yet who have ruled vast geographies for centuries, this stage reflects the mission of carrying that heritage into the future. Designs underline the image of a modern and strong Turkey.
• “Rooted Turkey” Stage: Drawing from the architecture and ornamental language of the Great Seljuks, which played a vital role in transmitting tradition to Anatolia, designs focused on geometric patterns symbolizing the unity of science and art.
• Ottoman Stage: Within Istanbul’s cultural identity, the works of the Sinan era hold a privileged place. Under the theme “Sinan’s Istanbul,” designs emphasized the architectural character of this period.
• Human Scale: To ensure a human-centered approach, historical references were highlighted at the base levels of buildings, while simpler and modern expressions were used on the tower facades.
• Golden Ratio in Facades: Inspired by the solid-void proportions of Turkish architectural works, facade designs were developed to approximate the Golden Ratio.
• Pattern Stylization: Under the theme “Rooted Turkey Drawing Strength from its Past,” each stage emphasizes a different period of Turkish history. Facade and landscape designs incorporate patterns belonging to that era.

Project Scope

• Stage 1 (Borsa Istanbul and SPK): All architectural works (mechanical, electrical, structural), facade design, and coordination between authors and consultants managed by SP Architects.
• Stage 1 (TAO and BDDK): Architectural revisions, implementation coordination, facade design, and consultant coordination.
• Stage 2: Concept facade alternatives prepared for banks, with ongoing application projects tailored to each bank.
• Stage 3 (ÖPA): Architectural revisions, permit projects, implementation coordination, facade design, and overall consultant coordination.

Landscape Concept

The landscape incorporates the theme of reflection, inspired by mirrors, glass, water, and reflective surfaces. Three primary objectives guided the design:

1. Extending facade motifs into the landscape.
2. Enhancing green design within the site.
3. Increasing reflective surfaces so users perceive the environment from new perspectives.