Yenikoy | İstanbul, 2021
Landscape Design and Application
Located on the hills of İstinye, one of Istanbul’s most prestigious districts, this landscape project was designed with the aim of re-evaluating the potential of the existing site, creating a high-quality living environment that responds to user needs, and transforming the garden into a dynamic landscape that remains active throughout all four seasons.
The primary design approach was to create a sustainable garden environment that establishes a strong connection with nature within an urban context, provides users with a sense of comfort and belonging, enhances visual experiences throughout different times of the day, and maintains a balanced relationship between aesthetics and functionality.
Within this framework, the existing character of the site was preserved while developing a flexible, inviting, and long-lasting landscape design adapted to the lifestyle requirements of the new users. The garden was conceived not merely as a visual element, but as a living outdoor space capable of responding to different scenarios of use and daily experiences.
To ensure that the garden could easily adapt to future needs, flexible and reusable solutions were preferred for the hardscape elements. Through sustainable and durable material selections that allow modifications without major structural interventions, the transformation capacity and long-term adaptability of the landscape were preserved.
Permeable surface solutions and supportive landscape elements were incorporated to reduce water consumption and optimize the use of natural resources. Gravel surfaces applied over ecological ground grids along the garden circulation routes allow rainwater to reach the soil in a controlled manner, supporting natural drainage systems and improving overall water management.
Within the planting areas, tree bark mulch was used to maintain soil moisture, reduce evaporation, and support healthy plant development with minimum irrigation requirements by extending the retention of water within the soil.
As one of the key design elements enhancing outdoor use, a pergola system with a metal structural framework was designed and implemented. The permeable automated shading system provides users with flexible use according to changing climatic conditions while maintaining a visual connection with the sky and extending the outdoor living experience.
To enhance the sustainability of the planting design, the natural relationship between plants and existing soil was preserved. Planting islands created through the use of fiber and metal elevation elements established a controlled planting system that provides both aesthetic value and technical efficiency.
Functional areas dedicated to relaxation, social interaction, and outdoor activities were planned throughout the garden to respond to different user requirements. These spaces were carefully integrated with the overall landscape character, creating a cohesive and harmonious outdoor environment.
The project, completed in 2021, was further developed in 2023 with the addition of a swimming pool application. This section of the garden was approached as a rooftop garden concept by evaluating the existing structural conditions and was transformed into a new outdoor space that enriches the overall landscape experience.
Throughout the project, sustainability, user comfort, and aesthetic values were considered together to create a timeless and evolving landscape environment that integrates nature into the urban context while adapting gracefully over time.
