18 Projects from Turkey Compete in the Final of the “World Architecture Festival Awards”!
The World Architecture Festival, which has been serving as an international meeting platform for the global architecture community since 2008, will witness the competition of 12 offices and 18 projects from Turkey for the grand prize at the World Architecture Festival Awards this year.
Hundreds of applications were submitted from more than 50 countries, including Portugal, Malaysia, Finland, Mexico, Turkey, Australia, Japan, India, and UK, for the award ceremony scheduled to take place in Lisbon from November 30 to December 2. Among the 420 finalists for 2022, there are 9 projects from Turkey in the “Completed Buildings” category, 5 projects in the “Future Projects” category, and 4 projects in the “Inside 2022” interior awards.
The finalists are expected to present their projects in person to the jury panel during the event in Lisbon on November 30 to December 2, 2022. The projects participating in the World Architecture Festival Award will be showcased in the World Buildings Directory publication, and the finalists will be featured in The Architecture Review.
For detailed information about the “World Architecture Festival 2022”, you can visit here.
Here are the finalist projects from Turkey according to their categories:
Completed Projects
Atatürk Cultural Center
Category: Culture
Architect: Tabanlıoğlu Architects
Developer: Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Culture and Tourism
Completion Date: October 29, 2021
Location: Istanbul
The new Atatürk Cultural Center project, addressing the challenge of interpreting the architecture of the 60s, particularly with complex functions such as opera, intertwines contemporary art, architecture, and urban understanding. Its objective is to preserve the aesthetic, physical, and social values inherited from its precursor projects and the historical texture of the building.
For detailed information about the Atatürk Cultural Center competing in the “Culture” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by Tabanlıoğlu Architects, click here.
 Photo: Tabanlıoğlu Architects |
Bodrum Loft
Category: Hotel and Leisure
Architect: Tabanlıoğlu Architects
Developer: AKFEN REIT
Completion Date: June 30, 2021
Location: Bodrum, Muğla
The project comprises 38 flexible and divisible housing units, predominantly duplex villas, situated on a topography with a slope of over 50% in Torba, a village along the Aegean coast. In this “house complex” of interconnected structures, the central focus of the design is living around the courtyard.
For detailed information about Bodrum Loft competing in the “Hotel and Leisure” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by Tabanlıoğlu Architects, click here.
 Photo: Tabanlıoğlu Architects |
Çankaya University Faculty of Architecture
Category: Higher Education and Research
Architect: Erkal Architects
Developer: Çankaya University
Completion Date: September 1, 2021
Location: Ankara
The Faculty of Architecture, home to the departments of Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning, and Interior Architecture, stands as the inaugural structure introducing Çankaya University’s new campus. Comprising 8 large and 4 small design studios, offices, administrative spaces, classrooms, laboratories, and an auditorium, the building connects with neighboring structures and open areas across three different levels.
The building’s design aims to achieve a harmonious blend of formal and informal spaces essential for a design-oriented education that focuses on varying scales. Emphasizing the significance of formal design education, a distinct set of design studios takes precedence. These studios, strategically positioned along the south facade, maximize the benefits of balanced northern lights while minimizing the exposure to noise from the nearby Eskişehir highway.
For detailed information about Çankaya University Faculty of Architecture competing in the “Higher Education and Research” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by Erkal Architects, click here.
 Photo: Erkal Architects. Source: World Buildings Directory - WAF |
Divan Kuruçeşme Venue
Category: Hotel and Leisure
Category Sponsor: Grohe
Architect: GAD Architecture
Developer: Divan Group
Completion Date: January 1, 2022
Location: Istanbul
The Divan Kuruçeşme project, designed by GAD Architecture, prioritizes harmony with the overall silhouette, environment, and the nature as its core elements. In the restoration initiative framed by this vision, due regard has been given to preserving the existing historical walls and venerable trees, while placing special emphasis on the project’s view from the sea. Divan Kuruçeşme has undergone a strategic re-functionalization, featuring a versatile hall designed for weddings and receptions, along with four hotel rooms and meeting spaces seamlessly integrated into the existing ambiance. The project also encompasses essential service areas and parking facilities. A conscious effort has been made to utilize sustainable and locally sourced materials.
For detailed information about Divan Kuruçeşme Venue competing in the “Hotel and Leisure” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by GAD Architecture, click here.
 Source: GAD Architecture |
Galataport Istanbul Cruise Port
Category: Transport
Architecture: Autoban
Developer: Galataport İstanbul Liman İşletmeciliği ve Yatırımları A.Ş.
Completion Date: December 10, 2021
Location: Istanbul
The design of the passenger terminal at Galataport Istanbul, the world’s first underground cruise ship port, seeks to create a space that feels natural and airy. The primary objectives include optimizing the passenger flow for those entering and exiting the terminal and ensuring a pleasant transit experience, even in spaces with limited access to sunlight.
For detailed information about Galataport Istanbul Cruise Port competing in the “Transport” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by Autoban, click here.
 Photo: Autoban. Source: World Buildings Directory - WAF |
Heper Lighting Factory
Category: Production, Energy and Recycling
Architect: Yazgan Design Architecture
Developer: Heper
Completion Date: March 31, 2022
Location: Ankara
Situated in Ankara, the Başkent Organized Industrial Zone is home to the Heper Lighting Factory and Office Building, encompassing a range of facilities such as research and development offices, administrative offices, a seminar room, lighting academy, laboratory and test areas, showroom, cafeteria, and staff changing rooms.
The central concept behind the project revolves around the integration of technological and industrial production into the architectural design, serving as distinctive facade elements for the building. The smart elements designed to infuse dynamism into the facade include lighting units that combine various functions such as a solar panel module, WiFi module, camera module, speaker module, interactive display module, radar module, sign module, and street light module. In addition to these functions developed by Heper, Yazgan Design Architecture introduces projection modules and modules featuring plants that can thrive with the aid of light.
For detailed information about Heper Lighting Factory competing in the “Production, Energy and Recycling” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by Yazgan Design Architecture, click here.
 Photo: Yazgan Design Architecture |
Istanbul Painting and Sculpture Museum
Category: New and Old
Architect: EAA - Emre Arolat Architecture
Developer: Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University
Completion Date: December 12, 2021
Location: Istanbul
Photo: Thomas Mayer
In the initial phase of the design process, an analysis was conducted on the historical physical and sociological characteristics of the region. With a focus on preserving these structures distinguished by unique scale and structural elements, one of the primary design goals was to retain the surface geometry of the reinforced concrete grid, characterized by repetition and order—the most prominent structural feature of the warehouse buildings. While preserving the existing reinforced concrete structural system, the approach involved removing the walls and floors to establish a three-dimensional grid structure, providing a framework for the galleries of the new museum.
For detailed information about Istanbul Painting and Sculpture Museum competing in the “New and Old” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by EAA - Emre Arolat Architecture, click here.
 Photo: Thomas Mayer. Source: EAA - Emre Arolat Architecture |
Joali Being
Category: Hotel and Leisure
Architect: Autoban
Developer: Gurok
Completion Date: December 15, 2021
Location: Bodhufushi, Maldives
The first of its kind in the Maldives, the design of a luxury wellness retreat nestled in the nature revolves around the concept of “lightness”. Its primary objective is to provide a transformative and purifying accommodation by eliminating all unnecessary excess, fostering a reconnection with oneself and the surroundings, and seamlessly integrating with the natural environment.
The project entails the creation of an experiential design narrative that weaves together the identity of the island, the philosophy of the wellness retreat concept, and the harmonious integration of architecture and interior design. Employing biophilic principles through a layered design approach, the goal is to place the nature at the forefront, emphasizing the detail and materiality to foster multi-sensory interactions.
For detailed information about Joali Being competing in the “Hotel and Leisure” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by Autoban, click here.
 Photo: Autoban. Source: World Buildings Directory - WAF |
Palanga Goat Shelter
Category: Production, Energy and Recycling
Architect: Erginoğlu & Çalışlar Architects
Developer: Kutluğ Ataman (Palanga Art & Architecture Farm)
Completion Date: September 1, 2021
Location: Erzincan
As a component of the Palanga Art and Architecture Farm, the Goat Shelter has been designed in consideration of goat physiology, local geography, climate conditions, and the seismic requirements of the site. The project features a tall earthquake-resistant structure, crafted with two semicircular rammed earth walls of varying diameters supported by a deep stone foundation. Initiated with a commitment to sustainable solutions, adaptation to existing conditions, utilization of natural materials, and the application of traditional stone-earth-wood construction techniques, the project involved active engagement with local craftsmen, collaborative knowledge generation, and coordination with academic entities. The resulting structure serves as an experimental model for zero-carbon emission construction and is entirely recyclable.
For detailed information about Palanga Goat Shelter competing in the “Production, Energy and Recycling” category as part of the Completed Projects, as well as the other projects by Erginoğlu & Çalışlar Architects, click here.
 Source: World Buildings Directory - WAF |
Future Projects
Çamlıbahçe Pazaryerine
Category: Civic
Architect: ŞANALarc
Developer: Kütahya Municipality
Completion Date: September 1, 2023
Location: Kütahya
The project is centered around the active citizen participation in public programs and public life within the historic center. The master plan proposes a library and a performance center with the aim of encouraging various generations to engage with the city’s cultural offerings. The lower street level of the market is designed to accommodate a versatile indoor space, alongside long-term rental stalls for the sale of fish, dairy products, as well as spices or dry foods. The upper street level is intended as an indoor multi-purpose hall for daily markets and various celebrations, including annual holidays, weddings, festivals, and community events such as ‘iftar’.
For detailed information about Çamlıbahçe Pazaryerine competing in the “Civic” category as part of the Future Projects, as well as the other projects by ŞANALarc, click here.
 Visualization: ŞANALarc |
IGA Istanbul VIP Terminal
Category: Infrastructure
Architecture: Tabanlıoğlu Architects
Developer: IGA
Completion Date: June 30, 2024
Location: Istanbul
Designed to cater to the needs of both private jet and scheduled flight passengers seeking VIP service as an additional structure at IGA Airport, the VIP terminal embodies an organic, functional, and aesthetically pleasing form. The building comprises three main volumes: the International VIP Passenger Service Area (880m²), the Domestic VIP Passenger Service Area (655m²), and the reception area (1140m²), with the roof of the circular masses shaped as a parabola. The design draws inspiration from the petals of the “lathyrus”, an endemic species of Istanbul.
The 2771m² ground floor encompasses check-in facilities, offices, food and beverage spaces, gaming areas, waiting and experience zones, duty-free outlets, and pop-up shops. The first floor, spanning 762m², hosts 4 suites, a spa, café, terrace, and common areas catering to international flights. The mezzanine floor, covering 1062m², provides service for 4 suites and 300m² of domestic flights. The basement area, including the kitchen, spans 1273m², resulting in a total optimized area of 4980m².
For detailed information about the Istanbul VIP Terminal competing in the “Infrastructure” category as part of the Future Projects, as well as the other projects by Tabanlıoğlu Architects, click here.
 Visualization: Tabanlıoğlu Architects |
Istanbul Yenikapı Cruise Port
Category: Infrastructure
Architecture: UMM Uludağ Architecture
Developer: Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure
Completion Date: October 5, 2022
Location: Istanbul
The cruise port planned for the Yenikapı coast comprises two main sections as the sea side and the land side. Situated on a landfill adjacent to the sea which is the southwest of Yenikapı Square, the cruise port and terminal will be complemented by social, cultural, and commercial facilities on the land side. The newly developed beach area is envisioned as a significant hub where citizens can access the sea, partake in social and cultural activities, unwind, and observe the activities at the cruise port.
The cruise port, which will be equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, is designed to provide passengers and crew with a comfortable and secure travel experience. Passengers will have direct access to the terminal building from ships via bridges, minimizing the impact of extreme weather conditions.
For detailed information about the Istanbul Yenikapı Cruise Port competing in the “Infrastructure” category as part of the Future Projects, as well as the other projects by UMM Uludağ Architecture, click here.
 Visualization: UMM Uludağ Architecture |
Cappadocia SPA Otel
Category: Leisure Led Development
Architect: GAD Architecture
Developer: Indigo Group
Completion Date: September 1, 2023
Location: Nevşehir
The distinctive physical texture of Cappadocia, its historical sites, and the discovery of thermal water in the area through research have served as fundamental elements in shaping this project. The aim is to seamlessly blend into this “environment” by utilizing the physical and cultural features of the geography while establishing a “distinctive context” through a unique texture and narrative intrinsic to the project itself.
For detailed information about Cappadocia SPA Hotel competing in the “Leisure Led Development” category as part of the Future Projects, as well as the other projects by GAD Architecture, click here.
 Visualization: GAD Architecture |
Karakiyanskiy Rayon Safari Resort
Category: Leisure Led Development
Architect: Tabanlıoğlu Architects
Developer: Sembol Construction
Completion Date: June 30, 2025
Location: Mangistau, Kazakhstan
Situated in the steppes of Kazakhstan, approximately 3-4 hours away from the nearest settlement, the safari resort’s architecture seamlessly harmonizes with the nature, aiming to accentuate the landscape and the environment, providing guests with an authentic experience of the surroundings.
The interior and exterior design of the project align with the colors and distinctive features of rock, soil, and vegetation. The design incorporates sheltered outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces, as well as indoor spaces, to maximize opportunities for guests to spend time in the nature, individual units, and communal social areas.
For detailed information about Karakiyanskiy Rayon Safari Resort competing in the “Leisure Led Development” category as part of the Future Projects, as well as the other projects by Tabanlıoğlu Architects, click here.
 Photo: Tabanlıoğlu Architects. Source: World Buildings Directory - WAF |
INSIDE 2022
Galataport Istanbul Cruise Port
Category: Public Buildings
Architect: Autoban
Developer: Galataport İstanbul Liman İşletmeciliği ve Yatırımları A.Ş.
Completion Date: October 10, 2022
Location: Istanbul
The historical architecture and character of Istanbul’s ancient cisterns are evoked in the inner shell constructed within the terminal area, as well as in the column edges, and the structural forms of the upper floors. Specifically crafted lighting schemes emitting a silver light were chosen to accentuate this natural ambiance, while a light and natural color palette was selected for various materials. Durable materials with larger surfaces and minimal grout joints were chosen to withstand the heavy circulation and to ensure ease of cleaning.
For detailed information about Galataport Istanbul Cruise Port competing in the “Public Buildings” category as part of INSIDE 2022, as well as the other projects by Autoban, click here.
 Photo: Autoban. Source: World Buildings Directory - WAF |
PH7800
Category: Residential (Single Dwelling)
Architect: MAS Architecture
Developer: Hakan Çarmıklı
Completion Date: January 1, 2021
Location: Izmir
The project, executed within an existing building on Çeşme’s Ilıca Beach, features permeable and open-plan living spaces, spacious floor terraces, and a centrally located atrium designed as a living space that enhances the connection of the nature outside the house to the interior life. With a wide sea panorama on the north facade and a sunny slope adorned with a lush green texture on the south facade, the space is envisioned as a dynamic canvas that transforms with daily and seasonal cycles, offering users the opportunity to immerse themselves in various life scenarios and atmospheres.
For detailed information about PH7800 competing in the “Residential (Single Dwelling)” category as part of INSIDE 2022, as well as the other projects by MAS Architecture, click here.
 Photo: Egemen Karakaya. Source: MAS Architecture |
Radisson Collection Hotel Bodrum
Category: Hotels
Architect: Metex Studio Erk
Developer: Ant Yapı
Completion Date: December 31, 2021
Location: Muğla
Nestled on a serene bay with views of the Greek island of Kos, the project comprises 80 rooms and suites, all-day dining area, a lobby bar, and four meeting rooms tailored to the business community. Boasting a vast coastline spanning four hundred meters and a small inner harbor, the project establishes a profound connection with the sea. Executed after the pandemic, the design prioritizes the mental and physical well-being of individuals. Additionally, another key element shaping the interior design concept is a deep respect for the cultural and natural heritage of the region. Natural materials were carefully selected with an emphasis on material quality that enhances the sensory experience without unnecessary extravagance.
For detailed information about Radisson Collection Hotel Bodrum competing in the “Hotels” category as part of INSIDE 2022, as well as the other projects by Metex Studio Erk, click here.
 Photo: Metex Studio Erk. Source: World Buildings Directory - WAF |
TOGG CES Exhibition Booth
Category: Temporary/Meanwhile Uses
Architecture: Boytorun Architects
Developer: TOGG
Completion Date: January 2, 2022
Location: Istanbul, Las Vegas
The TOGG CES Exhibition Booth design, showcasing Turkey’s first electric car with a total floor area of 325m², aims to create interactive spaces within the project, including the reception area, vehicle display, meeting room, lounge with a dining area, kitchen, and storage areas, incorporating technical and technological infrastructures with a dynamic and innovative design approach. The TOGG booth at CES 2022 will feature a dynamic, energetic, and powerful design language that seamlessly aligns with the brand’s corporate identity.
For detailed information about TOGG CES Exhibition Booth competing in the “Temporary/Meanwhile Uses” category as part of INSIDE 2022, as well as the other projects by Boytorun Architects, click here.
 Photo: Boytorun Architects. Source: World Buildings Directory – WAF |
