VakıfBank Head Office Service Building and Facilities, a symbol of Islamic architecture

One of the biggest and oldest state-owned banks in Turkey, Vakıfbank planned its headquarters building in İstanbul. The Bank would like a reference to the ancient heritage. With reference to the topography, in the financial center, the geometric properties of the land direct the configuration of forms of the project VAKIFBANK. The main tower in the form of an octagonal star form is a powerful symbol of Islamic architecture, a study of the different minarets. Facade applications have been simulated by the stylization of the Seljuk geometry. Islamic patterns born out of mathematical wisdom are the basis of the main structure; instead of ornamental façade applications, the origin of the form concludes in an oriental vision by the structural formation with reference to the ancient heritage. The general approach is to avoid only a superficial motif imitation, beyond that, by making use of the advanced mathematical competence used in the pattern creation technique of the Seljuk architecture- that is the peak reached by the Islamic culture in art, architecture, and science in the 13th century- is revived in the 21st century. Identifying one of the main points of reference of the building, and as a mark of "productiveness”, the entrance recalls the Ahmet Fountain by the entrance to Topkapi Palace. The octagonal star-shaped main tower is a powerful symbol of Islamic architecture, obtained with a study of different minarets. Facades gain character with the principles of Seljuk geometry. The attribute to the past and the traditional style is conceptually emphasized at the entrance and at the central gate, however, with its 21st century architecture, where high technology is used, the building stands out in the future The 16-sided façade gains the star form at the plan. Like the minarets, the illumination comfort provided by the natural light received through the sheltered but transparent facades, open to the urban landscape that braces internal-external relationship. Alternative angles of view gained in interior spaces as much as the angles gained on the exterior, all users will be open to different vistas and will benefit from daylight in a balanced way. Vakıfbank Tower takes its place in the city skyline with a balanced placement thanks to its iconic façade, integrated with the urban landscape, and strengthening its internal-external relationship. Facade aesthetics will also be reflected in the interior spaces. A fluid space organization and system are proposed in the horizontal and vertical; inter-space integrity, a strong internal-external relationship visually, and terms of accessibility and permeability, are considered in all units of the project. With the physical construction of the building, energy-saving opportunities such as natural light and ventilation are gained. In addition to the physical passivity proposed by the structure, material selection, and spatial sense, it aims to be a bridge between the established private and public space relationship and the power of daily life and finance. Atrium located on certain floors can be used as vertical gardens and common areas, in addition to the spatial gain, these areas will provide aesthetic as well as social gain. Easy access to the metro station and other institutional buildings within the land will be provided, while VIP entrances will be provided to the building and a more controlled, direct, and secure access alternative will be provided. The landscape approach with the soft and hard elements of the project strengthens the connection of the land with the green space and supports the idea that the building is the focus of the district. In addition to the privilege of having a direct border with the city with the location of the land in the masterplan, the areas obtained by using the natural slopes and elevation differences can be planned as small-scale shopping which will be the source of social communication with the urban environment. This is also a public contribution to the immediate environment, and the rental income to be obtained is expected to be used in the maintenance and routine expenses of the complex.