Research and Development Center

Urban Context and Conceptual Approach

Situated in one of the most valuable zones of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, the BTM Building reinterprets contemporary innovation within the memory laden urban fabric. While acting as a hub for digital entrepreneurship and technological innovation, the project is also positioned to contribute to the cultural continuum of the city. Drawing architectural inspiration from the nearby Grand Bazaar, the design references both structural archetypes and spatial openness — such as arches, layered courtyards, and a vivid green palette — while proposing a modern typology.

Massing and Skyline Integration

The fragmented volumetric composition of the building is informed by two primary objectives: to preserve the silhouette and view of the historic Liman Han located immediately behind the site, and to ensure that the building’s scale remains compatible with the skyline of the Historic Peninsula. In response, taller volumes are positioned adjacent to the ITO Building, while a permeable and lower ground-floor base with arched colonnades supports the upper mass. Public and semi open spaces are embedded into the ground level, referencing the urban passages of Sirkeci.

Public Ground and Spatial Porosity

Between Reşadiye and Yalıköşkü Streets, a shaded and accessible plaza is introduced, forming a new breathing space in the dense urban context. This transition zone is designed not only to encourage public use but also to soften the threshold between the street and the interior. Functional diversity is emphasized on the ground level with open to public programs such as cafes, a library, and event spaces  enabling the building to operate as a day and night destination.

View and Terrace Strategy

Taking advantage of its proximity to the Bosphorus and Haliç, the building is articulated with terraces, large openings, and transparent façades to frame key landmarks such as the Galata Tower and Bridge. An elevated rooftop terrace functions as a landscaped extension of the workspaces and library, ensuring uninterrupted visual access while bypassing infrastructural obstacles like roads and tramlines at ground level.

Functional Program and Transformative Use

The BTM Building hosts a wide range of functions: flexible incubator and office spaces, a library, co-working and administrative units, and a series of adaptable public zones. The ground level semi open space can be enclosed or opened as required, supporting tech events, exhibitions, or educational programs. Additionally, the revitalization of Liman Han into a youth focused research and study center ensures a complementary relationship with the BTM complex, reinforcing its hybrid and responsive urban role.