Smart City
Simulation Center
Smart city simulation center designed with the purpose of creating solutions for increasing and creating possibilities for Istanbul to raise awareness about the smart city concept. The idea came up from valens aqueduct, which remains from Byzantine period and by that time the city may considered as smart city because of the aqueduct technology that they had. Since the site located near the aqueduct, getting inspiration from that masterpiece is undeniable. The research center aims to create suggestions with the simulations that they created by using AI technology, for a better Istanbul which may be improved. After the creation of simulations, center aims to share the results and make it public for the benefit of the society. That’s why project includes a exhibition space which is seperate from working areas. Beside the stereotype private research centers, this building is trying to combine the private and public usage by its facilities and trying to be open for everybody with it’s multi functional places. At the same time the building stil protecting it’s privacy for their researcher’s working environment, working areas and labs are only accessible for researchers.
Furthermore, the building was designed with several volumes and open spaces which are integrating with the slope of the site and ensures a balance between history and contemporary. The main entrance leads visitors from İtfaiye street to the courtyard by big stairs and welcomes them. Also there are two other entrances from Valens Aqueduct and Gazanferaga madrasah sides. Courtyard of the project can be count as a main circulation area which intersects the three walking route and creates a meeting place for people.
From courtyard level visitors can access seminar hall, cafe, library’s public area and entrance for exhibition area. This level is more public and designed for social events so that citizens can use the place for their several needs in their daily life. Other levels are more private and designed for researchers which includes working areas and AI labs. There some public places exists at that floors such as terrace and exhibition place but they are controlled and designed for researcher’s privacy.
As a final the center designed by considering the importance of both Gazanferaga Madrasah and Valens Aqueduct. Voids are designed for creating a view and open area for both of them. Center is trying to be not dominant near them. Finally, it can be said that, the project designed with having respect for historical buildings and structures near them and it is a place where you can work and learn but also can socialize with a good view.
