Levitate

Project idea

The Izmir Urban Studies and Design Center project emerges from the need to reinterpret the identity and spirit of Izmir through a spatial and architectural experience. Inspired by the city’s rich history, natural environment, and dynamic social structure, the project aims to create not merely a building, but a platform that preserves collective memory, fosters interaction, and contributes to urban transformation. It addresses the growing need for a spatial environment where citizens, students, and researchers can gather, engage, and reflect on the evolving nature of the city.

Within this context, the concept of “levitate” is adopted both as a spatial strategy and a symbolic stance. The building physically rises from the urban ground, evoking a sense of lightness, while conceptually offering users an elevated perspective to rethink and reinterpret the city. This approach aims to elevate not only the physical experience of the space but also the intellectual engagement it stimulates.

Project description

The project consists of a dynamic architectural configuration shaped around a fragmented yet permeable ground-floor layout. This level opens toward a central courtyard and establishes strong spatial relations with its surroundings. The design departs from the monotony of conventional urban patterns by introducing a distinctive spatial geometry and volumetric diversity. Angular relationships established on the ground floor are preserved and extended into the upper levels, resulting in a cohesive architectural mass.

The upper floors appear to levitate above the ground level, supporting the central design concept. These layers, visually and spatially detached from the ground through strategic voids, retain a connection to the city while offering a new vantage point from above. The layered organization of functions achieves a balance between social interaction spaces and zones designed for individual use. Open and semi-open spaces enrich the user experience and reinforce the building’s permeability.

Technical information

The project is organized around a ground-floor axis system that responds to the surrounding context, creating a fragmented yet permeable layout leading to a central courtyard. This courtyard acts as both a spatial connector and a climatic buffer. Angular geometries formed at the ground level are continued in the upper floors, providing spatial continuity and reinforcing the unity of the building mass.

The volumetric design challenges the uniformity of the urban fabric while aligning with the rhythm of the city. The concept of levitate is reflected in the upper floors, which appear to hover above the ground through strategic voids and setbacks, giving the structure a sense of lightness and elevation.

Material selection plays a key role in conveying the architectural intent. The façade is clad with vertically grooved prefabricated concrete panels, giving the building a sculptural, monolithic character while playing with light and shadow. Transparent, floor-to-ceiling glazing on the ground floor ensures permeability and visual connection with the surroundings. The roof of the top volume is finished with zinc cladding, offering both durability and a refined texture. Interior materials such as wood and natural stone are used to soften the experience and add warmth to public spaces.

The building is constructed with a reinforced concrete frame system, allowing spatial flexibility and structural stability. Natural ventilation and daylight are prioritized through courtyards, openings, and large glazed surfaces. Functionally, the lower levels encourage public engagement, while upper floors offer more private, introspective spaces—capturing the balance between introversion and extraversion embedded in the concept.

Documentation

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