IN TURKEY, ARCHITECTURE IN TUNE WITH NATURE

Rubrum Office / Taiyo Watanabe

For twelve years, Office Istanbul Architects has been creating timeless designs that emphasize the relationship between architecture and nature, combining local knowledge with contemporary design. Zoom in on four of their projects.

The Turkish architecture firm, founded by Kemal Serkan Demir and Ece Türkel, makes a significant contribution to the discipline of public and private architecture. The trio's Rubrum Winery, nestled in the Seferihisar countryside of Izmir, is a feat of architecture. The design reconciles the region's long winemaking tradition with contemporary design in constant dialogue with the environment. "Our conceptual approach progressed simultaneously with our desire to create an experience for visitors eager to understand and appreciate the wine they consume here," explain the architects. Rubrum Winery provides access to the grape harvest, maturation and bottling of
wine, as well as a boutique, tasting room and private dining room for guests.

Here, the studio creates a dynamic interplay of color, light and shadow. Reflecting pools complete the splendor of the site, creating a mirror effect on the vines and the environment. The Rubrum Office completes the project, hidden away in the middle of the Rubrum Winery like a secret space. Surrounding this structure in straight lines are the vines, like a representation of the territory to be exhibited and cultivated.

BETWEEN SKY, LAND AND SEA

With the Hill House, architecture and landscape unite once again. This mountain-view residence is located in the village of Gölcük, in the southern heights of Izmir, in connection with nature, light, sound and air. Hundred-year-old olive trees, fruit trees, platform structure and infinity pool reinforce the fluidity between the living space and the natural environment. The pool always plays an active role for
architects, bringing the movements of sky, sea and land. The boundaries between inside and outside blur and disappear as soon as the sliding glass doors open.

Zeytinli House offers a different perspective, inspired by Mediterranean life in the heart of the Seferihisar countryside. This stone house is an interpretation of modern architecture combined with the traditional, out of time. "It touches on traces of the past with its presence in the courtyard, reflecting a beautiful representation of the ancient way of life of Anatolian civilizations," say the architects. While the walls have been preserved, the interior meets the needs of modern life. A haven of peace overlooking green hills, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.

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