istanbul's futuristic radio tower is now under construction

istanbul-based studio melike altınışık architects (MAA) has released new photos which showcase the in-progress construction of the award winning istanbul çamlıca TV and radio tower. the telecommunications tower is set to replace several antiquated structures and will both combine an estimated 125 broadcasting transmitters while offering occupiable space for the people of istanbul. the project is designed to symbolize the growth of the megacity of istanbul.

images courtesy of melike altınışık architects

melike altınışık architects’ formal design seeks a sense of motion and rhythm which transforms with the viewer’s perspective. apart from the telecommunication space, the tower will house a two-story restaurant with a 360 degree view and observation deck overlooking the city, with a vista sweeping from europe to asia. other public programs include a public foyer, cafe, and exhibition areas. panorama elevators will traverse 180 vertical meters along both sides of the tower and serve to feed and divide the colossal form. 

wind testing was employed to confirm the overall stability of the monumental structure and optimize how the load of the building envelope would act on the concrete core. wind testing further served as a design strategy to which ultimately led to the development of the facade. the engineered facade not only provides structural optimization but allows for occupiable space to encircle the tower’s concrete core.

the design principal of MAAlab, melike altınışık, awarded this year by the ‘europe 40 under 40 awards’ explains: ‘the story of this award winning project goes back to years ago. in 2011, I have participated ‘istanbul çamlıca tv and radio tower project’ national competition in collaboration with daniel widrig and florian dubiel. in late 2013, the ministry of transportation and communication decided to build this futuristic 369m tall tower at istanbul küçük çamlıca hill. it was a long projecting process together with teams of very important turkish and foreign engineers to achieve international standards. in this unique tower which requires advanced engineering techniques both in terms of architectural design and construction methodology, all the design features, architectural planning and material selections were made considering these processes.‘