Tarabya | Istanbul, 2024
Landscape Design and Application
Completed at Tarabya Sumer Houses , this landscape design and construction project was conceived through a holistic design approach that extends the building’s classical architectural character into the outdoor environment. Throughout the design process, architectural language, material selection, and spatial organization were considered as an integrated whole, resulting in exterior living spaces that achieve a balanced relationship between aesthetics and functionality.
The project encompasses both the entrance garden and the lower-level outdoor living areas, which were carefully planned as interconnected spaces to reinforce visual and functional continuity across the site’s changing levels. To complement the architectural identity of the residence, a series of bespoke galvanized steel elements—including the pedestrian entrance gate, automated vehicle gate, railing systems, and custom structural elevation components—were designed and fabricated specifically for the project. A timeless architectural language was adopted throughout all custom metalwork, ensuring seamless integration with the existing architecture.
For the hardscape, Eflani Fossil Rustic Green Marble was selected to reinforce the residence’s classical architectural expression. Installed in a French pattern layout, the varied stone dimensions create a rich rhythmic composition that adds texture and visual depth to the landscape. Combining the enduring qualities of natural stone with refined craftsmanship, the paving establishes a durable outdoor surface designed to retain its aesthetic character for many years.
One of the project’s principal engineering challenges arose from the site’s operational constraints. As the residential management regulations prohibited any intervention within the shared vehicular access road, while the available maneuvering space inside the property was limited, a conventional sliding gate was not a viable solution. Instead, a custom-designed automated bi-fold gate system was developed, allowing the gate panels to fold entirely within the property boundary. This solution maximized the available space while significantly improving both functionality and ease of access.
Designed around the client’s lifestyle, the outdoor kitchen serves as one of the garden’s primary social focal points. A modular unit incorporating a sink was custom-designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing barbecue, creating a fully functional outdoor cooking area. Imported porcelain ceramic cladding and a porcelain countertop were selected to combine long-term durability with a refined contemporary aesthetic.
Within the terrace, bespoke movable planters were introduced to soften the visual impact of the expansive paved surfaces while establishing a more natural and inviting atmosphere. Beyond their aesthetic contribution, the movable planter system provides flexibility, allowing the outdoor space to be reconfigured according to changing user needs and seasonal planting arrangements.
The Sumer Houses Landscape Project represents a comprehensive outdoor environment where classical architecture is thoughtfully reinterpreted through contemporary landscape design principles. Supported by carefully engineered technical solutions, the extensive use of natural materials, and a strong emphasis on user-oriented spatial planning, the project successfully strengthens the architectural identity of the residence while creating a refined and highly functional outdoor living experience.
