Yoo Istanbul |SS| House

Yoo Istanbul | Beşiktaş | Istanbul 2022

Landscape Design and Application

Located within the Yoo Istanbul residential complex in Besiktas, this rooftop garden project was designed with the aim of creating a high-quality outdoor environment that complements the existing architecture, remains usable throughout all four seasons, and enhances the overall aesthetic value of the residence. Positioned above the block entrance and characterized by a linear corridor-like configuration, the rooftop garden establishes a direct relationship with the residence through the winter garden, strengthening the continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces and functioning as an important extension of the living environment.

During the design process, two primary challenges shaped the overall approach: the insufficient soil depth available for healthy plant development and the need to overcome the monotonous spatial perception created by the elongated corridor form. In response, galvanized and corten steel elevation elements were introduced to create varying levels throughout the garden. These interventions provided adequate growing volumes for planting while adding movement, depth, and a stronger spatial perspective to the linear layout.

The planting design was developed in response to the microclimatic conditions of the rooftop environment. Durable plant species adapted to wind-exposed and semi-shaded areas were carefully selected, creating a sustainable and low-maintenance landscape that remains resilient throughout the year. In the sun-exposed areas, natural grass surfaces were incorporated according to user requirements, while shaded zones feature graded river gravel applied over ecological ground grids to enhance drainage performance and create a low-maintenance ground treatment that emphasizes natural texture.

The Iroko timber storage unit, designed according to user needs, provides functional storage capacity while complementing the natural material palette and strengthening the overall architectural integrity of the design.

One of the most significant aspects of the project is the complexity of its implementation process. Executed on the rooftop level of an actively operating residential building in the city center, the construction phase required meticulous coordination in terms of access, material transportation, logistics management, and on-site implementation. All processes were managed through detailed planning, ensuring that the design intentions were successfully realized in harmony with the required construction techniques.