Zenel: A Distinctive 14-Story Residential Building

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Located in the upscale Erenköy neighborhood on Istanbul’s Asian side, Zenel stands out as a remarkable 14-story residential building designed by Aytaç Architects. With its thoughtful integration into the surrounding environment, the building reflects a blend of modern architecture and contextual sensitivity. Let’s explore how Zenel achieves its unique identity through design, functionality, and sustainability.

A Contextual and Innovative Design Approach

Aytaç Architects, led by founder Alper Aytaç, are known for their dedication to creating powerful and clear design solutions tailored to their surroundings. Zenel is no exception, skillfully integrating into the coastal landscape while offering a distinctive architectural presence. The design approach harmonizes with the nearby Ba?dat Avenue grid, creating a structure that transitions seamlessly from the city to its natural surroundings. The building’s orientation towards the Prince Islands, located approximately 10 km south of the Sea of Marmara, allows for breathtaking views and a unique sense of place.

Zenel’s exterior is characterized by a rugged yet polished design. The “crystallized molten rock” effect evokes a weathered, yet refined, aesthetic—blurring the lines between urban living and the natural environment. This contrast between the rough exterior and the refined interior creates a dynamic relationship with the surrounding area, offering residents both visual interest and a sense of connection to the landscape.

Functionality and Environmental Consciousness

At the heart of Zenel’s design is functionality and environmental stewardship. The building features a reflecting pool at its base, which not only enhances its visual appeal but serves as a social connector for the surrounding neighborhood. The pool creates a space where locals can interact with the building, with colorful fish and hydroponic plants becoming a focal point for community engagement. Additionally, a bridge from the reflecting pool leads to the building’s entrance, offering a transitionary experience that mimics a natural interaction with the landscape.

In terms of sustainability, Zenel employs cutting-edge technologies to reduce its environmental impact. Each apartment utilizes an air-to-water heat pump system, which significantly minimizes the building’s carbon footprint. The lateral facades are equipped with state-of-the-art protective technologies to shield residents from electromagnetic radiation emitted by nearby mobile phone masts, enhancing both comfort and safety.

A Space for Intimacy and Connectivity

Zenel’s interior spaces are designed to offer residents a unique living experience. The lateral facades allow for expansive city views while maintaining a sense of privacy. This balance is achieved through carefully curated apertures and a thoughtful layout that fosters a sense of intimacy within each unit. The building’s innovative use of space results in a comfortable living environment that accommodates both social interactions and personal relaxation.

Moreover, Zenel’s facade—designed as a porous, eroded rock-like surface—serves as a striking architectural feature. Water seeps through the undulated entrance wall, creating a transition from the exterior to interior spaces, further enhancing the dynamic flow between nature and architecture.

Architectural Innovation and Legacy

Zenel exemplifies Aytaç Architects’ commitment to creating architecture that transcends traditional forms and engages deeply with its environment. Through innovative design and a deep understanding of both physical and cultural contexts, the building stands as a testament to the firm’s philosophy of dynamic, responsive, and contextually-sensitive architecture. Zenel’s unique architectural narrative continues to set new standards in residential design within Istanbul’s evolving landscape.

Technical Sheet