Interviews with Ece Gülagac

I have always been interested in the relationship between people and spaces. Architecture fascinated me because it combines creativity with logic, emotion with functionality, and imagination with the realities of construction. I studied architecture and gradually discovered that what interested me most was not only creating buildings, but shaping the experiences that happen inside them. Over time, interior architecture, spatial design and the way people interact with a space became an increasingly important part of my professional practice.

I am the co-founder of OGE Architects, an Istanbul-based architecture and design studio established in 2010.

Our work covers architecture, interior architecture, corporate environments, hospitality and aviation-related projects. We are especially interested in projects where spatial design, brand identity, cultural context and user experience need to work together.

At OGE Architects, we develop projects from the initial concept through detailed design and implementation. For us, the strength of a project lies not only in the first idea, but in how consistently that idea survives until the space is actually built.

For me, design is the process of transforming an idea into an experience.

A successful space should not simply be visually attractive. It should communicate something, respond to its context and create an emotional connection with the people who use it.

In our projects, we often begin with a story rooted in geography, culture, nature or brand identity, and then translate that story into spatial decisions.

I particularly enjoy projects where many different layers need to be resolved together: architecture, interior design, lighting, materials, brand identity, circulation and user experience.

Airport lounges, hospitality environments and office projects are especially interesting to me. In lounge and hospitality projects, creating comfort, calmness and a strong spatial identity is particularly important, while in office projects, I value the opportunity to translate corporate culture, working habits and employee experience into the physical environment.

I enjoy bringing different user needs, operational requirements and aesthetic expectations together within one coherent design language. This balance between emotional impact and technical precision is one of the aspects of design that motivates me most.

I focus strongly on coherence.

The spatial organization, material palette, lighting, furniture and architectural details should all belong to the same idea.

I also pay great attention to circulation and user experience. A project may have a strong visual identity, but if people cannot move naturally through the space or feel comfortable in it, the design is incomplete.

For me, a successful design is one where concept, function, context, material and user experience support each other.

The strongest projects are those where cultural or conceptual references are not added superficially at the end, but are embedded in the architecture from the beginning.

I first look for clarity and coherence.

I want to understand whether there is a real idea behind the project and whether the spatial decisions support that idea.

After that, I look at proportions, circulation, materials, lighting, detailing and how the project responds to its users and context.

Designers have a responsibility that extends far beyond aesthetics.

Our decisions affect material consumption, energy use, durability and the long-term lifecycle of spaces.

I believe designers should prioritize adaptable solutions, responsible material selection and longevity. Sustainability should not be an additional layer added to a project; it should be part of the initial design thinking. This was also an important part of our approach in Cotton Boll, where natural materials, LED lighting, lightweight components and adaptable systems were considered together.

Design is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary.

Architecture is now closely connected with technology, sustainability, data, user experience and artificial intelligence.

I believe AI will fundamentally change the speed of exploration and visualization. However, the real value of designers will continue to lie in interpretation: understanding context, asking the right questions and giving meaning to all the information and possibilities technology provides.

We begin by understanding much more than the written project brief.

We try to understand the company's identity, operational requirements, users, expectations and long-term goals.

We then translate this information into a clear conceptual framework. Throughout the project, we work closely with clients, consultants, engineers and contractors because large-scale projects require constant coordination between design and implementation.

Our process begins with research.

We analyze the site, geography, cultural context, users, operational requirements and brand identity. From this research, we try to discover a central narrative that can guide the project.

Once the concept is established, we develop planning, materials, lighting, furniture and three-dimensional studies together rather than treating them as separate stages.

Later, the process becomes increasingly technical. At that stage, the challenge is to preserve the original concept while solving real-world constraints such as regulations, durability, production and construction.

Do not be in a hurry to create a personal style.

First learn how to observe.

Study buildings in reality, understand materials, learn how things are constructed and question why a design decision was made.

Digital tools are important, but architecture ultimately becomes physical. A designer who understands materials, construction and human behavior will always have a stronger foundation.

Remain curious and never stop researching.

A material, form, pattern or lighting element should not exist simply because it looks attractive.

When every decision supports the concept, function or experience, the project becomes much stronger and more timeless.

Observation, curiosity and critical thinking are essential.

A designer also needs spatial awareness, technical knowledge, communication skills and the ability to make decisions.

Another important quality is adaptability. Architecture constantly changes through technology, regulations, materials and social expectations, so designers must be willing to keep learning.

In the Horizon Finance Hub, our design approach was guided by the ambition to merge cultural continuity with contemporary efficiency. We viewed the heritage of Turkish-Islamic architecture not as an aesthetic layer, but as a design system built on geometry, rhythm, and balance. Inspired by the architectural traditions of regions such as Khorasan, Hejaz, the Balkans, and Andalusia, we distilled their forms into abstract geometries that subtly informed the spatial organization, light composition, and circulation patterns of the workspace.Rather than applying traditional motifs as decoration, we embedded their logic into the architecture itself. The geometric order became a framework for proportion and flow, guiding how employees move, interact, and perceive the environment. Advanced fabrication methods—such as CNC-milled panels and digitally printed glass—allowed us to reinterpret historical patterns with precision while preserving a modern aesthetic language. This fusion created a workspace that feels rooted yet forward-thinking; a place where cultural identity enhances rather than limits innovation.

The limited ceiling height was one of the most critical physical challenges in the Horizon Finance Hub project. With an initial height of only 2.40 meters, the space risked feeling compressed and visually heavy — conditions incompatible with the openness and transparency we aimed to achieve. Our solution stemmed from a design philosophy centered on spatial perception and psychological comfort rather than pure technicality. We decided to relocate all mechanical systems to the service floor above, effectively exposing the structural ceiling and gaining a significant sense of vertical expansion.This intervention completely transformed the atmosphere of the office. The increased height allowed natural light to spread more freely and improved acoustic balance through strategically placed suspended elements. We emphasized vertical rhythm through lighting and architectural fins, creating an impression of fluidity and airiness. Beyond its physical benefits, the change symbolized a conceptual shift — transforming a limitation into an architectural statement of openness, flexibility, and transparency. The workspace now feels more uplifting, reflecting the forward-looking identity of the organization.

The user research phase was fundamental to the development of Horizon Finance Hub. Engaging with over 450 employees and managers allowed us to understand not only their functional needs but also their emotional and cultural expectations from a workspace. We conducted interviews, surveys, and observational studies to map daily behaviors, communication patterns, and comfort thresholds. This process revealed critical insights: employees desired transparency and collaboration but also needed zones for privacy and focused work.These findings directly shaped the spatial organization. We adopted a modular planning strategy that transitions seamlessly between collaborative areas, flexible meeting points, and quiet zones. The layout encourages movement and visibility while maintaining controlled boundaries through acoustic elements and furniture composition. Beyond physical configuration, the research also influenced the emotional tone of the space — we integrated culturally inspired graphics and materials that foster a sense of belonging and corporate unity. The result is a workplace designed not only for productivity but also for psychological well-being and collective identity.

The use of parametric design tools was a key element in transforming the Horizon Finance Hub from a traditional office into a responsive and adaptive environment. Rather than relying solely on intuition, we built a data-informed design model based on the behavioral analysis of employees. Using digital simulations, we mapped patterns of movement, collaboration density, and acoustic activity throughout the workspace. This allowed us to predict high-interaction areas and potential points of distraction.With these insights, we positioned collaborative zones where communication naturally occurs — near circulation paths and shared resources — while placing quiet zones in acoustically shielded pockets away from main traffic flows. Parametric modeling also enabled fine-tuning of spatial proportions, daylight penetration, and furniture clustering to balance energy and calmness across the floor plate. The result was a dynamic equilibrium between openness and focus: a workspace where data-driven precision meets human comfort. By integrating this computational intelligence into design thinking, we achieved an environment that evolves in harmony with its users’ behavior and the rhythm of corporate life.

Our material strategy was built upon the dual ambition of authenticity and innovation. We aimed to create a tactile environment that reflects the depth of Turkish-Islamic heritage while meeting the expectations of a modern corporate culture. Materials were not chosen merely for their aesthetic qualities, but for their sensory and psychological impact. CNC-milled panels allowed us to reinterpret traditional patterns with architectural precision, introducing subtle shadows and textures that change throughout the day. This sense of visual dynamism keeps the workspace engaging and alive.Digitally printed glass partitions, on the other hand, represent the intersection of transparency and identity. They provide privacy without isolation, symbolizing the collaborative spirit of the organization. Each material was selected for its ability to communicate a balance between rootedness and progression — wood tones for warmth, glass for clarity, and metal accents for contemporary contrast. Beyond their visual effect, these materials influence behavior: they soften transitions, reduce stress, and create a sense of belonging. The result is an environment that not only performs efficiently but also resonates emotionally with those who inhabit it.

Each of the regions that inspired Horizon Finance Hub—Khorasan, Hejaz, the Balkans, and Andalusia—represents a distinct layer of the Turkish-Islamic architectural legacy, and together they form a cultural continuum that bridges continents and centuries. Our design narrative sought to translate this continuity into spatial form. From Khorasan, we drew inspiration from the abstract geometry and meditative order of early Islamic architecture; from Hejaz, the restrained elegance of proportion and the harmony between structure and ornament; from the Balkans, the interplay between natural light and local craftsmanship; and from Andalusia, the fusion of cultural pluralism and architectural fluidity.Rather than replicating these elements literally, we reinterpreted them through geometry, light, and material logic. The result is an architectural composition that carries echoes of different geographies yet feels cohesive and contemporary. This synthesis allowed the space to become more than an office—it became a cultural landscape where employees experience both belonging and discovery.

Finding the right balance between openness and privacy was one of the central design challenges in the Horizon Finance Hub. In large-scale offices, transparency can easily become overwhelming, while excessive compartmentalization can hinder collaboration. Our strategy was to design gradients of openness rather than binary separations. Using spatial data from user research, we identified behavioral zones—areas where interaction was frequent and others where concentration prevailed. This allowed us to organize the floor plate as a fluid sequence of collaborative and quiet territories.Service areas and meeting rooms were intentionally positioned as spatial buffers, subtly dividing departments without physical barriers. Their placement not only optimized acoustic comfort but also defined intuitive navigation routes that encourage spontaneous encounters. Architectural elements like semi-transparent partitions, controlled lighting, and material transitions were employed to further shape the sense of enclosure and permeability. The resulting environment feels open yet composed, offering psychological comfort without isolating individuals. It reflects our belief that privacy and collaboration are not opposites but complementary dynamics within an effective workspace.

Sustainability in the Horizon Finance Hub was not treated as a checklist but as a guiding design philosophy. Our goal was to create a space that operates efficiently today while remaining adaptable for the future. Energy performance, material life cycle, and user well-being were considered together rather than as separate targets. We implemented energy-efficient HVAC systems, motion-sensitive lighting, and daylight-optimized planning to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. Yet beyond the technology, sustainability also guided how we shaped spatial behavior.We used recycled and locally sourced materials to minimize the project’s carbon footprint, but we also integrated biophilic elements—natural textures, greenery, and balanced light—to promote physical and mental wellness. The modular construction approach reduced on-site waste and enabled future reconfiguration, extending the life of the design. This holistic model merges environmental ethics with business logic: a workplace that performs sustainably because it’s designed to evolve, not expire. By aligning ecological awareness with human experience, we believe the project demonstrates that sustainability is not an aesthetic choice, but a cultural responsibility.

Receiving the Bronze A’ Design Award for Horizon Finance Hub was both a recognition and a reflection. It validated our belief that cultural heritage, when reinterpreted through the lens of contemporary design, can generate new forms of relevance and beauty. The award encouraged us to continue exploring how spatial identity and corporate culture can coexist without compromise. It also reinforced our conviction that design excellence today must balance technology and tradition, performance and poetry.This recognition expanded our dialogue with international audiences, allowing us to position Turkish architectural heritage as a living, evolving language rather than a static historical reference. It inspired our team to deepen our research into regional narratives and to experiment with new digital fabrication methods to express cultural continuity in modern contexts. Ultimately, the award reminded us that innovation is most meaningful when it carries the memory of place — when design becomes a bridge connecting the past, present, and future.

In the Horizon Finance Hub, smart technology was integrated not as a visual statement, but as an invisible layer of intelligence enhancing everyday work life. Our objective was to create a responsive environment that intuitively adapts to users rather than requiring users to adapt to it. IoT-enabled meeting rooms automatically adjust lighting, temperature, and acoustic settings according to occupancy and activity, providing immediate comfort without conscious effort. Sensor-driven lighting systems respond to movement and daylight, ensuring optimal illumination while minimizing energy use.These features collectively streamline daily workflow by reducing cognitive load and eliminating repetitive manual adjustments. Employees can move through the space fluidly, focusing on collaboration and creativity rather than environmental control. Data gathered from these smart systems also informs long-term space management, helping the organization continuously refine efficiency and user satisfaction. More importantly, technology becomes a silent partner — one that amplifies human potential while remaining unobtrusive. The result is a workplace that feels alive, adaptive, and empathetic to the rhythm of its users.

The design journey began by identifying cotton as a deeply rooted and multidimensional symbol of Çukurova’s geography, economy, and culture. Rather than limiting this inspiration to a singular gesture, we developed a comprehensive spatial language influenced by the cotton boll — its softness, texture, and natural rhythm. This concept was not only reflected in the lounge's iconic ceiling structure but extended into the color palette, lighting design, and decorative wall elements.The ceiling design evolved from a synthesis of two narratives: the curvilinear lines of Çukurova's cotton fields and the "Flow" concept, which is a core element of the airline’s corporate identity. We merged these influences to create a ceiling composed of naturally curved, wave-like installations formed from layered natural cotton fabrics. These layers were softly illuminated by flexible LED strips placed between them, diffusing the light in a gentle, ambient manner reminiscent of cotton’s lightness and purity.Beyond the ceiling, we integrated the cotton boll metaphor into custom backlit wall panels featuring soft, rounded patterns and textures that evoked the form and delicacy of cotton itself. The overall color palette consisted of warm, desaturated tones inspired by raw cotton and the Çukurova landscape — earthy, serene, and tactile. These elements were thoughtfully applied throughout the space to create continuity and an emotional atmosphere grounded in place.Due to stringent airport fire safety regulations, we had to restrict the fabric height; to counteract this, we employed mirror-finish laminate ceiling panels, which visually doubled the vertical dimension, enhancing spatial openness and immersion. Through iterative prototyping, technical refinement, and careful integration of symbolic, material, and brand-based inputs, the cotton concept matured into a cohesive design language that defines both the physical and emotional identity of the lounge.

The handcrafted mosaic panel was envisioned as a tribute to Çukurova’s layered cultural identity and craftsmanship heritage. We drew inspiration from both local carpet motifs and ancient mosaic textures found in the region’s historical sites. This convergence of traditional textile arts and architectural ornamentation reflects the continuity between Çukurova’s past and present. The panel, made of 3,532 individually crafted hollow aluminum pieces, allowed us to experiment with both texture and light. The surface alternates between matte and glossy finishes, creating dynamic reflections that change as passengers move by — symbolizing the living, evolving nature of culture. It became more than decoration; it is an interactive, sensory artwork that embodies the patience and precision of traditional artisanship within a modern design language. Our intention was to infuse the space with an authentic narrative moment that celebrates local heritage while enhancing spatial storytelling.

Designing in an airport context presents strict technical constraints. Fire resistance, material longevity, and ease of maintenance were non-negotiable. While the aesthetic aimed to capture softness and comfort, all materials had to pass rigorous aviation safety codes. For instance, natural fabrics were treated for flame retardancy, and their height was restricted per regulations. To counter this, we introduced mirrored ceiling panels to double the perceived height of the vertical fabric elements. Surfaces subject to heavy use — such as flooring, wall finishes, and furniture — were selected for durability and stain resistance. Acoustic comfort was also a priority due to the open nature of the terminal environment. We designed with modularity in mind, enabling easy updates or repairs without disrupting the lounge operation. Balancing emotive design with technical compliance shaped many of our decisions, ensuring that beauty and performance coexisted harmoniously.

Our lighting strategy was rooted in the symbolic softness of cotton. We wanted the space to feel warm, calm, and immersive — a refuge from the busy airport atmosphere. To achieve this, we placed flexible LED strips between vertically suspended cotton fabrics, allowing the layers themselves to diffuse light in a soft, cloud-like manner. This eliminated direct glare and added depth, evoking the natural ambient glow of a cotton field under daylight. The interplay between light and fabric creates a meditative atmosphere that supports passenger relaxation and psychological comfort. It also enhances spatial zoning, guiding users naturally without harsh visual cues. This approach gave us control over luminance, minimized shadowing, and elevated the spatial narrative through texture and warmth. Lighting was not just functional but emotional — transforming the ceiling into a living element that supports a more human-centered travel experience.

The spatial configuration was guided by both function and experience. We divided the 765 m² into three zones: a calm main lounge, a semi-open terrace with a connection to the exterior, and a private crew rest area. The cotton-inspired ceiling design continues throughout, subtly adapting in scale and form based on the function of each zone. In the crew area, acoustics and privacy were prioritized, while in the terrace area, materials were selected for outdoor resistance but matched the indoor finish tones to ensure continuity. Zoning was supported by intuitive circulation and visual landmarks like the mosaic panel. The result is a space where transitions are seamless — users intuitively flow between areas while still feeling the overall coherence of the design narrative.

We abstracted the rhythmic, fluid form of cotton fields and translated it into the spatial design. By studying aerial views of Çukurova’s cotton landscapes, we reflected their linear, curvilinear patterns onto the ceiling. This design gesture also aligned with the "flow" theme found in the corporate identity of our client, the airline company. The use of natural cotton fabrics further reinforced this narrative on a material level. By interpreting local elements through abstract and minimal geometries, we achieved a contemporary expression. Thanks to mirror-finish surfaces and modern lighting strategies, this agricultural inspiration was transformed into a modern and timeless aesthetic.

In addition to mirror-finish ceiling panels that visually doubled the height of suspended fabrics, we employed several other spatial strategies. A neutral, light-toned palette helped maximize natural light and reduced visual clutter. We used curved forms and softened corners in partitions and furniture to avoid visual interruption and create a sense of openness. Strategic lighting helped zone the space without using physical barriers. Built-in seating with integrated lighting and backlit cotton-pattern panels added depth to walls. We also designed circulation paths with generous clearances, allowing passengers to move freely without crowding. These techniques worked together to create a lounge that feels airy, expansive, and inviting, despite the limitations of a defined footprint within an airport.

Passenger flow was one of our top priorities. The layout follows an intuitive progression — from check-in to rest zones to refreshment areas — without confusion or backtracking. This was achieved through open sightlines, clear spatial hierarchy, and strategically placed visual cues such as the mosaic wall or seating alcoves. These elements serve as wayfinding anchors while also embedding cultural storytelling. Every detail — from the cotton-inspired ceiling to the handmade patterns — tells a story of Çukurova. However, they are never overwhelming. They quietly enrich the environment while guiding movement naturally. The design supports functional needs while simultaneously acting as a vessel of cultural immersion, helping passengers connect to the region they’re departing from or arriving into.

Sustainability was integral to our design philosophy. We selected natural materials like cotton fabrics and locally sourced woods where possible. The handcrafted mosaic panel, made from lightweight aluminum, reduced transport and installation impact. All lighting was energy-efficient LED, and fabrics were chosen not only for their regional symbolism but also for low environmental impact in production and disposal. In addition, we minimized the use of permanent partitions, opting for modular and adaptable components to extend lifecycle use. Our suppliers were selected based on transparency in environmental practices. We aimed to prove that even in high-traffic, regulated environments like airports, ecological responsibility can coexist with cultural storytelling and comfort.

We believe Cotton Boll Private Lounge sets a precedent for how cultural identity can be authentically woven into transit environments. In an age of homogenized airport experiences, this project demonstrates that local narratives — when translated thoughtfully — can enrich passenger experience, foster emotional connection, and create memorable spaces. Our approach bridges heritage and innovation, suggesting a model for future lounges, terminals, or public spaces where culture is not a superficial layer but a structural part of the design process. It encourages the industry to move beyond branding toward storytelling rooted in place. In this way, we hope the project inspires a more human-centric and culturally meaningful evolution in modern travel design.