NACI TOPCUOGLU SCIENCE CENTRE

Istanbul-based Studio Vertebra has designed a new science centre and technology park in Gaziantep, Turkey. Called the Naci Topcuoglu Science Centre, the project was made to add value to the region with a sustainable, holistic and integrated approach to architecture and landscape design. Located in one of the developing regions of the city, the project is made with a ‘planetarium orb’ at its core.

The centre and its triangular form features a sloping landscape and environmental functions across a construction area of 15,000 sqm. Working with the exhibition concept, the team also created the interior spaces of Naci Topcuoglu Science Centre. While part of the structure was embedded in the ground in order to integrate it into the area it is built on, the topography was elevated towards the building to obscure the border that separates the building and the landscape.

In comparison, the building envelope was designed with a ‘timeless form’. The circular entrance emphasises a single point and is accentuated with light bands. At its core, an inner courtyard opens at the centre of the structure to embrace daylight in a controlled way. Outside, the square located on the façade of Naci Topcuoglu Science Centre gradually narrows towards the building. It is designed in a way that allows space for outdoor exhibition areas. The floor design plays off images of star and galaxy maps in the sky by making use of light effects, and offers an installation art area to the user.

As the main component of the project, the planetarium orb is placed on the entrance axis of the building, at a central point of the interior space. In this way, the orb serves as an object that accentuates the holistic appearance of the interior space from a single point at the centre.

The sustainability criteria considered at the design phase of Naci Topcuoglu Science Centre project also shaped the structure and the landscape. With heat and water insulation, efficiently-used daylight, and energy-efficient landscape designs, the project creates a welcoming environment that promotes sustainability.

Via ArchDaily | Images courtesy of Studio Vertebra