grimshaw architects: koc contemporary art museum, istanbul

grimshaw architects: koc contemporary art museum, istanbul
all images courtesy of grimshaw architects

selected from more than 20 firms world wide, international practice grimshaw architects‘ proposal for the koç contemporary art museum came out on top, and has been chosen by the vehbi koç foundation, an organization which works to sustain and promote cultural and social life in istanbul and greater turkey, to be realized.

the museum will feature a stone colored mosaic tiled facade

grimshaw envisions a building that is set to become an extension of its site, and draw on the architectural history of turkey. situated in the beyoglu area of istanbul, a district which is undergoing rapid redevelopment, their design will contribute to the vibrancy of the quarter, boasting a number of public spaces in and around the structure creating a harmony between the interior and exterior, an important consideration of traditional ottoman architecture. in addition, grimshaw’s scheme for the cultural institution will feature geometric volumes, with materials selected to further elaborate on the ottoman building style, in which they will employ a stone colored mosaic-tiled facade, as well as rich, exotic woods within the galleries.

working together with thornton thomasetti, max fordham, neill woodger acoustics and lighting specialists jason bruges, grimshaw’s design for the koç contemporary art museum will aim to offer a venue which serves the broadest possible audience, while providing an ideal setting in which to conserve, preserve and restore the foundation’s growing collection of diverse art pieces–from media installations, paper works, paintings, performance art and video.

public plaza

‘koç contemporary is a hugely exciting and ambitious project that will have a significant impact not only on the role of contemporary art in istanbul, to educate and exchange ideas, but on the regeneration of a rich and diverse area of the city. the inter-relationship between architecture, place and the collections informed our proposals to enrich the visitor experience. the brief provided a remarkable opportunity for integrating a wide range of activities, events and disciplines in a single complex. we are honored to be part of designing such a vital cultural landmark.’ – kirsten lees, grimshaw architects, partner in charge

the museum is set to open to the public in 2016.

rooftop terrace offering views of istanbul