Ece Gulagac and Ozkan Gulagac · CLIENT: OGE Architects
Horizon Finance Hub merges cultural heritage with modern office dynamics, drawing inspiration from Turkish Islamic civilizations. The open plan layout enhances collaboration, while structured zones support focused work. CNC milled panels, printed glass partitions, and cultural motifs reinforce corporate identity. Ergonomic furniture, adaptive lighting, and smart office solutions improve comfort and efficiency. Energy efficient systems and recycled materials prioritize sustainability. By blending tradition with innovation, the design creates a dynamic, engaging, and future ready workspace.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Turkish Airlines Accounting and Financial Control Offices are located in the Cargo Building at İstanbul Atatürk Airport. The project area is 5500 square meters. In this area, which will serve 450 personnel and managers, specially designed areas are equipped with modern technology to increase collaboration, efficiency and communication. We analyzed the users' perspectives on office spaces, working systems and efficiency-production strategies and investigated the relationships between them.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- The space, with a total area of 5,500 square meters, was designed as an open office with a capacity of 450 employees.
- Tags
- modern office design, cultural integration, dynamic workspace, user-centered design, collaborative office, smart workplace solutions, employee experience, data-driven design, corporate branding in architecture
- Production Technology
- The design process was driven by a data-informed approach, combining user research, spatial analysis, and corporate identity integration. We utilized parametric design tools to develop spatial layouts that optimize workflow efficiency, collaboration, and employee well-being.
For material selection, a balance between tradition and modernity was achieved. High-performance acoustic panels, ergonomic furniture, and adaptive lighting systems were implemented to enhance comfort and productivity. The integration of Turkish-Islamic patterns and motifs was realized through CNC-milled panels, custom wall graphics, and digitally printed glass partitions, ensuring a seamless blend of cultural identity with contemporary office aesthetics.
Sustainability was a key consideration in the project. Energy-efficient HVAC systems, recycled materials, and biophilic design elements were incorporated to create a future-proof, environmentally conscious workspace. Smart technology solutions, including IoT-enabled meeting rooms, sensor-driven lighting, and noise-control systems, were embedded to enhance functionality and adaptability.
The construction process involved a modular and prefabricated approach, allowing for quick installation and minimal site disruption. This method facilitated cost-effective production while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to evolving user needs over time. - Design Challenge
- The main creative challenge was to seamlessly integrate the deep cultural heritage of Turkish-Islamic civilizations with the functional requirements of a modern corporate office environment. Balancing historical references with contemporary workplace dynamics required extensive research into architectural traditions, local motifs, and regional craftsmanship.
Another key challenge was the physical constraints of the project site. The initial ceiling height was 2.40 meters, and the space was shared by two different departments. Given the scale of the open office, it was essential to introduce vertical architectural elements to enhance the perception of height and define spatial zones without compromising openness.
To address this, we removed the closed ceiling and relocated all mechanical systems to the service floor above, effectively maximizing the ceiling height and creating a more expansive atmosphere. Additionally, we utilized service areas and meeting rooms as spatial dividers, strategically segmenting the large open office to improve proportion, functionality, and user comfort. This approach allowed us to create a workspace that balances openness with structured organization, enhancing both efficiency and spatial harmony. - Project Duration
- The project started in Istanbul in January 2024 and was completed in July 2024.
- Operation Flow
- The workspace is designed to enhance collaboration, efficiency, and engagement by seamlessly integrating cultural heritage with modern office dynamics. The open-plan layout allows employees to move freely, fostering natural interaction while maintaining structured zones for focused work.
The design encourages a dynamic workflow by incorporating flexible meeting spaces, shared workstations, and informal gathering areas, ensuring that different work styles are supported. The integration of graphics and cultural motifs not only strengthens the corporate identity but also helps employees feel a sense of belonging and connection to their environment.
To improve spatial flow, we strategically placed service areas and meeting rooms to create natural divisions within the open office, maintaining a balance between openness and structure. By utilizing modern technology, adaptive lighting, and acoustically optimized materials, the space adapts to the needs of its users, enhancing both comfort and productivity. - Research
- This project aimed to seamlessly integrate cultural heritage with modern workplace dynamics to enhance the employee experience. We conducted both qualitative and quantitative research, including user interviews, observational studies, and workplace efficiency analysis. Surveys and focus groups were utilized to gain deeper insights into employee needs, collaboration patterns, and productivity drivers.
The research involved 450 employees and managers, whose input directly influenced the spatial organization and functionality. Data analysis highlighted the need for open, flexible spaces that foster teamwork while also providing areas for focused work. Additionally, findings underscored the importance of cultural identity in cultivating a sense of belonging among employees.
The insights gathered were translated into adaptive workspaces, technology-driven collaboration tools, and culturally inspired design elements. This approach enhanced employee engagement, efficiency, and the seamless integration of corporate identity. The project serves as a model for balancing cultural heritage and innovation in workplace design, shaping the future of office environments and corporate culture. - Inspiration
- We were inspired by regions such as Khorasan, Hejaz, Balkans and Andalusia, which bear the deep-rooted traces of Turkish-Islamic civilizations, and the architecture, local motifs and colors of these places constitute the basic elements of our architectural concept. We integrated the cultural heritage of Turkish-Islamic civilizations with the corporate identity of the user. Additionally, graphics are designed to foster a sense of belonging among employees and strengthen team spirit.
- Image Credits
- DESIGN: OGE Architects
PHOTOS: Altkat Photography - Patents
- OGE Architects
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