Beykoz Concept Project 1

Location

Istanbul, Türkiye

Recognition

A 2013 CONCEPT STUDY FOR A HORIZONTAL RESIDENTIAL CONCEPT

Overview

Developed in 2013 as a residential concept study, Beykoz Concept Project 1 explores a low-rise settlement shaped by its natural surroundings and views towards the Bosphorus. Rather than concentrating the programme within tall residential blocks, the proposal adopts a horizontal composition of broad, human-scaled volumes. Buildings, gardens and terraces are organized as a continuous landscape, allowing residents to maintain a close visual and physical relationship with nature.

Challenge

The principal challenge was to accommodate a contemporary residential programme without creating a dominant silhouette disconnected from Beykoz’s landscape. The development needed to preserve views, provide daylight and natural ventilation throughout the residences and maintain privacy between neighbouring units. The architecture also had to establish a strong connection with the Bosphorus while reducing the visual impact of the built mass.

Solution

The masterplan distributes the residential programme across low-rise building volumes positioned in response to the terrain, views and landscape. Generous gaps between the buildings allow daylight and natural airflow to reach the living spaces while creating visual corridors towards the Bosphorus. The horizontal massing establishes a silhouette that follows the character of the surrounding environment. Natural timber cladding, stone surfaces and expansive glazing create a warm contemporary identity. Timber frames reinforce the relationship with the landscape, while wide glass façades bring the Bosphorus view into the interior as a defining part of everyday life. Green roofs, planted terraces and intensive landscaping visually extend the natural terrain across the development. These elements also create private and shared outdoor spaces while reducing the distinction between architecture and landscape.

Result

Beykoz Concept Project 1 presents a residential vision in which buildings become extensions of the landscape. Its low-rise composition preserves the human scale of the settlement, strengthens access to daylight and fresh air and establishes a continuous relationship between interiors, gardens and the Bosphorus. As a concept study, the project investigates how architecture and landscape can operate together to support a quieter and more connected form of residential life.