Upperist: A Rooftop Oasis in Istanbul

Located on the rooftop platform of The Marmara Taksim-Istanbul, Upperist boasts a simple and silent design that prioritizes the stunning 360-degree view of the city. Clean lines, white tones, and strategically placed bars create a serene atmosphere that enhances the customer experience. The design seamlessly integrates with the existing architecture, maintaining visual harmony with the historical peninsula, the Bosphorus, and the modern skyline.

Wind as Muse
The rooftop's exposure to strong winds is acknowledged through the design philosophy, "Form follows wind." Wind-resistant bar shutters, mirroring the minimalist aesthetic, provide shade based on the sun's movement, offering a dynamic play of light and shadow for both visitors and staff. Durable materials are chosen throughout, ensuring all elements – claddings, bars, and furniture – withstand Istanbul's ever-present wind. These low-tech solutions, utilizing steel and plywood, prioritize comfort and safety with minimal construction, showcasing a thoughtful and sustainable approach. Angled mirrors placed within the bar area further emphasize the grandeur of the historical peninsula, reflecting its beauty back onto the guests.

Living with Nature
The brutalist core wall from the 1970s is softened by wooden cladding. This cladding not only adds warmth but also serves as a trellis for jasmine plants, creating a living green wall over time.
Simple ponytail plants in white pots add a touch of natural coolness and a range of green hues to the space.

Durable Furnishings for All Seasons
Modular seating arrangements, available in various heights, allow for flexible configurations depending on the event. This hierarchy ensures optimal views for all guests, maximizing their enjoyment of the rooftop experience. The mobile seating units and low tables feature a wind-resistant metal structure with removable upholstery and permanent marble tabletops. Removable Upholstery allows for easy cleaning or replacement after winter storage, ensuring the furniture remains fresh and inviting for every season.

Sustainable Practices
Recyclable materials are prioritized over recycled materials, considering the realities of the Turkish market. This approach minimizes the environmental impact of production. Solid wood claddings are avoided and instead an assembled plywood element takes the role. This structural design of the wall claddings and the metal structure of the seating units allows for disassembly and source separation of waste for future recycling.

Combining Tradition & Technology
Local iron craftsmanship is combined with cutting-edge technology to create durable and long-lasting furniture. Our commitment to sustainability is further emphasized by using LED lighting, FSC-certified wood multiply, and limiting imported natural stone use.

Team: Koray OZGEN (Principal Designer), A. BORMANN (3D/Designer)
Construction management : A. AYVAZ
Teak Platform engineered by MKY