Bronze Interior Space and Exhibition Design · 2025
Horizon Finance Hub Open Office
by Ece Gulagac and Ozkan Gulagac
- A' Design Award 2025 Bronze Winner in Interior Space and Exhibition Design
- Awarded April 15, 2025
- CLIENT: OGE Architects
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 11,676
- Verification code 770A2468ED · Verify this award
About Horizon Finance Hub Open Office
Horizon Finance Hub merges cultural heritage with modern office dynamics, drawing inspiration from Turkish Islamic civilizations. The open plan layout enhances collaboration, while structured zones support focused work. CNC milled panels, printed glass partitions, and cultural motifs reinforce corporate identity. Ergonomic furniture, adaptive lighting, and smart office solutions improve comfort and efficiency. Energy efficient systems and recycled materials prioritize sustainability. By blending tradition with innovation, the design creates a dynamic, engaging, and future ready workspace.
Ece Gülagac's Horizon Finance Hub Open Office engages the evolving discourse surrounding contemporary workplace design where the paradigm has shifted decisively from cellular hierarchical planning toward transparent collaborative environments that prioritize flexibility, wellness, and spatial equity across organizational structures, this particular spatial intervention demonstrating sophisticated resolution of competing programmatic demands including acoustic privacy, visual connection, biophilic contact, technological infrastructure accommodation, and brand identity expression within the constraints of existing building envelopes and structural frameworks that characterize adaptive reuse projects transforming obsolete commercial or industrial buildings into contemporary knowledge work environments. The compositional achievement merits particular attention for its skillful deployment of linear perspective to maximize perceived depth while the central cyan circulation element functions simultaneously as wayfinding device, compositional spine, and chromatic accent that activates an otherwise neutral floor plane, the designer demonstrating notable restraint in material palette selection where pale gray flooring, white ceiling planes, charcoal exposed systems, and black workstation frameworks establish a cohesive neutral foundation against which strategic chromatic interventions including the aquamarine glass partitions and vermillion-orange-yellow accent walls register with heightened impact, this disciplined approach to color distribution allowing functional zoning and brand personality expression without descending into chromatic chaos or visual fatigue that would undermine the space's suitability for sustained cognitive work. The technical facility evident in the integration of building systems deserves recognition as the exposed ductwork, conduit, structural elements, and electrical infrastructure have been carefully coordinated, painted, and organized to read as intentional design feature rather than budgetary compromise or construction expedience, the vermillion conduit runs providing unexpected visual interest while maintaining functional legibility, the perforated metal deck contributing both acoustic absorption and industrial authenticity, and the overall ceiling composition maximizing usable volume while accommodating contemporary HVAC, electrical, data, and life safety requirements that support high-density occupation. The biophilic strategy represents perhaps the most significant experiential intervention as the curved walnut planters housing abundant living vegetation introduce organic forms, verdant coloration, textural variety, improved air quality, acoustic softening, and psychological restoration into an otherwise hard-surfaced technical environment, these elements positioned strategically to define territorial boundaries without erecting solid barriers, to provide visual privacy without sacrificing supervision or collaboration potential, and to establish human scale and natural rhythm within an expansive architectural volume that might otherwise feel impersonal or overwhelming, the plantings requiring ongoing maintenance commitment that signals organizational investment in environmental quality and occupant wellbeing. The glazed partition system demonstrates nuanced understanding of contemporary workplace needs as the aquamarine translucent and transparent panels provide acoustic separation and visual focus for small group collaboration or concentrated individual work while maintaining the spatial transparency and visual connection that supports spontaneous interaction, mentorship observation, and the organizational culture of accessibility and egalitarianism that many contemporary enterprises seek to cultivate, the chromatic tint adding warmth and reducing glare while establishing subtle departmental identity or functional zoning, the frameless or minimal frame detailing maintaining visual lightness and preventing the partitions from reading as heavy or oppressive subdivisions. The lighting design appears carefully calibrated to support both task performance and circadian health through layered ambient and focused illumination, the recessed downlights providing general even illumination while linear pendants deliver localized task support, the neutral to cool color temperature supporting alertness and color rendering accuracy appropriate for detailed work, the overall illumination level appearing generous without reaching uncomfortable brightness that would cause glare or eye strain. One might observe how Ece Gülagac's design navigates the complex territory between individual needs for acoustic privacy, visual focus, and territorial identity against collective organizational goals around transparency, collaboration, flexibility, and resource efficiency, the solution proposing that these competing values need not exist in zero-sum opposition but can be resolved through layered spatial planning, strategic partition deployment, biophilic intervention, and chromatic zoning that simultaneously supports multiple work modes and user preferences within a single architectural volume, inviting viewers to consider how spatial design decisions profoundly shape daily human experience, organizational culture, and the quality of time spent in work environments that consume substantial portions of contemporary life.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Turkish Airlines Accounting and Financial Control Offices are located in the Cargo Building at İstanbul Atatürk Airport. The project area is 5500 square meters. In this area, which will serve 450 personnel and managers, specially designed areas are equipped with modern technology to increase collaboration, efficiency and communication. We analyzed the users' perspectives on office spaces, working systems and efficiency-production strategies and investigated the relationships between them.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- The space, with a total area of 5,500 square meters, was designed as an open office with a capacity of 450 employees.
- Tags
- modern office design, cultural integration, dynamic workspace, user-centered design, collaborative office, smart workplace solutions, employee experience, data-driven design, corporate branding in architecture
- Production Technology
- The design process was driven by a data-informed approach, combining user research, spatial analysis, and corporate identity integration. We utilized parametric design tools to develop spatial layouts that optimize workflow efficiency, collaboration, and employee well-being.
For material selection, a balance between tradition and modernity was achieved. High-performance acoustic panels, ergonomic furniture, and adaptive lighting systems were implemented to enhance comfort and productivity. The integration of Turkish-Islamic patterns and motifs was realized through CNC-milled panels, custom wall graphics, and digitally printed glass partitions, ensuring a seamless blend of cultural identity with contemporary office aesthetics.
Sustainability was a key consideration in the project. Energy-efficient HVAC systems, recycled materials, and biophilic design elements were incorporated to create a future-proof, environmentally conscious workspace. Smart technology solutions, including IoT-enabled meeting rooms, sensor-driven lighting, and noise-control systems, were embedded to enhance functionality and adaptability.
The construction process involved a modular and prefabricated approach, allowing for quick installation and minimal site disruption. This method facilitated cost-effective production while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to evolving user needs over time. - Design Challenge
- The main creative challenge was to seamlessly integrate the deep cultural heritage of Turkish-Islamic civilizations with the functional requirements of a modern corporate office environment. Balancing historical references with contemporary workplace dynamics required extensive research into architectural traditions, local motifs, and regional craftsmanship.
Another key challenge was the physical constraints of the project site. The initial ceiling height was 2.40 meters, and the space was shared by two different departments. Given the scale of the open office, it was essential to introduce vertical architectural elements to enhance the perception of height and define spatial zones without compromising openness.
To address this, we removed the closed ceiling and relocated all mechanical systems to the service floor above, effectively maximizing the ceiling height and creating a more expansive atmosphere. Additionally, we utilized service areas and meeting rooms as spatial dividers, strategically segmenting the large open office to improve proportion, functionality, and user comfort. This approach allowed us to create a workspace that balances openness with structured organization, enhancing both efficiency and spatial harmony. - Project Duration
- The project started in Istanbul in January 2024 and was completed in July 2024.
- Operation Flow
- The workspace is designed to enhance collaboration, efficiency, and engagement by seamlessly integrating cultural heritage with modern office dynamics. The open-plan layout allows employees to move freely, fostering natural interaction while maintaining structured zones for focused work.
The design encourages a dynamic workflow by incorporating flexible meeting spaces, shared workstations, and informal gathering areas, ensuring that different work styles are supported. The integration of graphics and cultural motifs not only strengthens the corporate identity but also helps employees feel a sense of belonging and connection to their environment.
To improve spatial flow, we strategically placed service areas and meeting rooms to create natural divisions within the open office, maintaining a balance between openness and structure. By utilizing modern technology, adaptive lighting, and acoustically optimized materials, the space adapts to the needs of its users, enhancing both comfort and productivity. - Research
- This project aimed to seamlessly integrate cultural heritage with modern workplace dynamics to enhance the employee experience. We conducted both qualitative and quantitative research, including user interviews, observational studies, and workplace efficiency analysis. Surveys and focus groups were utilized to gain deeper insights into employee needs, collaboration patterns, and productivity drivers.
The research involved 450 employees and managers, whose input directly influenced the spatial organization and functionality. Data analysis highlighted the need for open, flexible spaces that foster teamwork while also providing areas for focused work. Additionally, findings underscored the importance of cultural identity in cultivating a sense of belonging among employees.
The insights gathered were translated into adaptive workspaces, technology-driven collaboration tools, and culturally inspired design elements. This approach enhanced employee engagement, efficiency, and the seamless integration of corporate identity. The project serves as a model for balancing cultural heritage and innovation in workplace design, shaping the future of office environments and corporate culture. - Inspiration
- We were inspired by regions such as Khorasan, Hejaz, Balkans and Andalusia, which bear the deep-rooted traces of Turkish-Islamic civilizations, and the architecture, local motifs and colors of these places constitute the basic elements of our architectural concept. We integrated the cultural heritage of Turkish-Islamic civilizations with the corporate identity of the user. Additionally, graphics are designed to foster a sense of belonging among employees and strengthen team spirit.
- Image Credits
- DESIGN: OGE Architects
PHOTOS: Altkat Photography - Patents
- OGE Architects
Colors of Horizon Finance Hub Open Office
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Grand Interview about Horizon Finance Hub Open Office
In the Horizon Finance Hub, our design approach was guided by the ambition to merge cultural continuity with contemporary efficiency. We viewed the heritage of Turkish-Islamic architecture not as an aesthetic layer, but as a design system built on geometry, rhythm, and balance. Inspired by the architectural traditions of regions such as Khorasan, Hejaz, the Balkans, and Andalusia, we distilled their forms into abstract geometries that subtly informed the spatial organization, light composition, and circulation patterns of the workspace.Rather than applying traditional motifs as decoration, we embedded their logic into the architecture itself. The geometric order became a framework for proportion and flow, guiding how employees move, interact, and perceive the environment. Advanced fabrication methods—such as CNC-milled panels and digitally printed glass—allowed us to reinterpret historical patterns with precision while preserving a modern aesthetic language. This fusion created a workspace that feels rooted yet forward-thinking; a place where cultural identity enhances rather than limits innovation.
The limited ceiling height was one of the most critical physical challenges in the Horizon Finance Hub project. With an initial height of only 2.40 meters, the space risked feeling compressed and visually heavy — conditions incompatible with the openness and transparency we aimed to achieve. Our solution stemmed from a design philosophy centered on spatial perception and psychological comfort rather than pure technicality. We decided to relocate all mechanical systems to the service floor above, effectively exposing the structural ceiling and gaining a significant sense of vertical expansion.This intervention completely transformed the atmosphere of the office. The increased height allowed natural light to spread more freely and improved acoustic balance through strategically placed suspended elements. We emphasized vertical rhythm through lighting and architectural fins, creating an impression of fluidity and airiness. Beyond its physical benefits, the change symbolized a conceptual shift — transforming a limitation into an architectural statement of openness, flexibility, and transparency. The workspace now feels more uplifting, reflecting the forward-looking identity of the organization.
The user research phase was fundamental to the development of Horizon Finance Hub. Engaging with over 450 employees and managers allowed us to understand not only their functional needs but also their emotional and cultural expectations from a workspace. We conducted interviews, surveys, and observational studies to map daily behaviors, communication patterns, and comfort thresholds. This process revealed critical insights: employees desired transparency and collaboration but also needed zones for privacy and focused work.These findings directly shaped the spatial organization. We adopted a modular planning strategy that transitions seamlessly between collaborative areas, flexible meeting points, and quiet zones. The layout encourages movement and visibility while maintaining controlled boundaries through acoustic elements and furniture composition. Beyond physical configuration, the research also influenced the emotional tone of the space — we integrated culturally inspired graphics and materials that foster a sense of belonging and corporate unity. The result is a workplace designed not only for productivity but also for psychological well-being and collective identity.
The use of parametric design tools was a key element in transforming the Horizon Finance Hub from a traditional office into a responsive and adaptive environment. Rather than relying solely on intuition, we built a data-informed design model based on the behavioral analysis of employees. Using digital simulations, we mapped patterns of movement, collaboration density, and acoustic activity throughout the workspace. This allowed us to predict high-interaction areas and potential points of distraction.With these insights, we positioned collaborative zones where communication naturally occurs — near circulation paths and shared resources — while placing quiet zones in acoustically shielded pockets away from main traffic flows. Parametric modeling also enabled fine-tuning of spatial proportions, daylight penetration, and furniture clustering to balance energy and calmness across the floor plate. The result was a dynamic equilibrium between openness and focus: a workspace where data-driven precision meets human comfort. By integrating this computational intelligence into design thinking, we achieved an environment that evolves in harmony with its users’ behavior and the rhythm of corporate life.
Our material strategy was built upon the dual ambition of authenticity and innovation. We aimed to create a tactile environment that reflects the depth of Turkish-Islamic heritage while meeting the expectations of a modern corporate culture. Materials were not chosen merely for their aesthetic qualities, but for their sensory and psychological impact. CNC-milled panels allowed us to reinterpret traditional patterns with architectural precision, introducing subtle shadows and textures that change throughout the day. This sense of visual dynamism keeps the workspace engaging and alive.Digitally printed glass partitions, on the other hand, represent the intersection of transparency and identity. They provide privacy without isolation, symbolizing the collaborative spirit of the organization. Each material was selected for its ability to communicate a balance between rootedness and progression — wood tones for warmth, glass for clarity, and metal accents for contemporary contrast. Beyond their visual effect, these materials influence behavior: they soften transitions, reduce stress, and create a sense of belonging. The result is an environment that not only performs efficiently but also resonates emotionally with those who inhabit it.
Each of the regions that inspired Horizon Finance Hub—Khorasan, Hejaz, the Balkans, and Andalusia—represents a distinct layer of the Turkish-Islamic architectural legacy, and together they form a cultural continuum that bridges continents and centuries. Our design narrative sought to translate this continuity into spatial form. From Khorasan, we drew inspiration from the abstract geometry and meditative order of early Islamic architecture; from Hejaz, the restrained elegance of proportion and the harmony between structure and ornament; from the Balkans, the interplay between natural light and local craftsmanship; and from Andalusia, the fusion of cultural pluralism and architectural fluidity.Rather than replicating these elements literally, we reinterpreted them through geometry, light, and material logic. The result is an architectural composition that carries echoes of different geographies yet feels cohesive and contemporary. This synthesis allowed the space to become more than an office—it became a cultural landscape where employees experience both belonging and discovery.
Finding the right balance between openness and privacy was one of the central design challenges in the Horizon Finance Hub. In large-scale offices, transparency can easily become overwhelming, while excessive compartmentalization can hinder collaboration. Our strategy was to design gradients of openness rather than binary separations. Using spatial data from user research, we identified behavioral zones—areas where interaction was frequent and others where concentration prevailed. This allowed us to organize the floor plate as a fluid sequence of collaborative and quiet territories.Service areas and meeting rooms were intentionally positioned as spatial buffers, subtly dividing departments without physical barriers. Their placement not only optimized acoustic comfort but also defined intuitive navigation routes that encourage spontaneous encounters. Architectural elements like semi-transparent partitions, controlled lighting, and material transitions were employed to further shape the sense of enclosure and permeability. The resulting environment feels open yet composed, offering psychological comfort without isolating individuals. It reflects our belief that privacy and collaboration are not opposites but complementary dynamics within an effective workspace.
Sustainability in the Horizon Finance Hub was not treated as a checklist but as a guiding design philosophy. Our goal was to create a space that operates efficiently today while remaining adaptable for the future. Energy performance, material life cycle, and user well-being were considered together rather than as separate targets. We implemented energy-efficient HVAC systems, motion-sensitive lighting, and daylight-optimized planning to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. Yet beyond the technology, sustainability also guided how we shaped spatial behavior.We used recycled and locally sourced materials to minimize the project’s carbon footprint, but we also integrated biophilic elements—natural textures, greenery, and balanced light—to promote physical and mental wellness. The modular construction approach reduced on-site waste and enabled future reconfiguration, extending the life of the design. This holistic model merges environmental ethics with business logic: a workplace that performs sustainably because it’s designed to evolve, not expire. By aligning ecological awareness with human experience, we believe the project demonstrates that sustainability is not an aesthetic choice, but a cultural responsibility.
Receiving the Bronze A’ Design Award for Horizon Finance Hub was both a recognition and a reflection. It validated our belief that cultural heritage, when reinterpreted through the lens of contemporary design, can generate new forms of relevance and beauty. The award encouraged us to continue exploring how spatial identity and corporate culture can coexist without compromise. It also reinforced our conviction that design excellence today must balance technology and tradition, performance and poetry.This recognition expanded our dialogue with international audiences, allowing us to position Turkish architectural heritage as a living, evolving language rather than a static historical reference. It inspired our team to deepen our research into regional narratives and to experiment with new digital fabrication methods to express cultural continuity in modern contexts. Ultimately, the award reminded us that innovation is most meaningful when it carries the memory of place — when design becomes a bridge connecting the past, present, and future.
In the Horizon Finance Hub, smart technology was integrated not as a visual statement, but as an invisible layer of intelligence enhancing everyday work life. Our objective was to create a responsive environment that intuitively adapts to users rather than requiring users to adapt to it. IoT-enabled meeting rooms automatically adjust lighting, temperature, and acoustic settings according to occupancy and activity, providing immediate comfort without conscious effort. Sensor-driven lighting systems respond to movement and daylight, ensuring optimal illumination while minimizing energy use.These features collectively streamline daily workflow by reducing cognitive load and eliminating repetitive manual adjustments. Employees can move through the space fluidly, focusing on collaboration and creativity rather than environmental control. Data gathered from these smart systems also informs long-term space management, helping the organization continuously refine efficiency and user satisfaction. More importantly, technology becomes a silent partner — one that amplifies human potential while remaining unobtrusive. The result is a workplace that feels alive, adaptive, and empathetic to the rhythm of its users.