RÖNESANS

This was a nationwide student competition organized by Rönesans Architecture. We participated as a group of 4 students, consisting of one architect (myself) and three civil engineers.

We designed a cultural center in Balçova/İzmir that will serve the city’s needs. Since the motto of the competition was ‘Design the Sustainable Future!’, our main concern was sustainability. That is why we displayed multiple solutions in terms of energy efficiency and renewability. The complex consists of a Literacy Workshop, Experience Atelier, Science and Technology Center, Cinema and Animation Workshop, and a restaurant.

Experience Atelier: Since we know that knowledge is permanent as it is applied, we wanted to create a space where people can make their knowledge lasting, through trial and error and socialize while satisfying their curiosity. Also, in order to create an alternative and easier way to transport within the center, we designed a grass textured path from ground level to the restaurant on top floor. That path is also a very pleasant environment for those who wants to lay down and enjoy the sunset.

Science and Technology Center: We have designed a workshop that will include science and technology more in our lives and help us designing the future. It is also emphasized that science is an important tool in protecting our resources by making efficient use of nature.

Literacy Workshop: Sharing information is the first step of sustainability. That is why this structure has a crucial part on our project. It is divided into three floors, for different groups and activities. Our main idea was to create multipurposed spaces for people from all ages to get together, read and get informed about different subjects. The building also offers to be an alternative environment for students who wants to focus.

Double Wall Facade System: It aims to prevent the facade from overheating and to reduce cooling costs. The air entering the vents under the facade rises by heating and exits the vents on the upper side, providing natural cooling.

Light Tubes: The aim of this design is to lead the natural light (which is lot more beneficial than artificial light) into dark spaces. Thanks to its geometry, light can reach to basement and parking area in this project. Solar energy is an unlimited and renewable energy type. The panels in our project are located on the roof of our highest building so that they can receive the light at the right angle.

By placing water troughs on the roof edges of the building, we have ensured rain water to be channeled into the tanks. The water collected in tanks, can be passed through the filtration center and re-fed to the city line or used in the building.