In the heart of Istanbul, Quartz Plaza stands out as a piece of architecture that engages more with the depths of the earth than with the city’s fleeting skyline. Designed by architect Alper Derinboğaz and the studio Salon, the project draws inspiration from the geological formation of the site, an area where two rock layers from the Miocene Epoch converge.
The building’s envelope, the project’s key feature, reinterprets the stratification of schist and the brilliance of quartz. Its double-inclined glass façade interacts with light—refracting, multiplying, and transforming the reflections of the urban landscape into ever-changing scenographies that evolve throughout the day. Glass here is not merely transparent but becomes a reflective, vibrant material, capable of producing unique luminous effects even indoors, where ribbed glass walls further amplify natural refractions.
Technology serves sustainability: the project incorporates a double-skin façade on the northeast and northwest elevations to optimize thermal efficiency and reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. A system of adjustable vents enables natural ventilation in summer and heat retention in winter. The result is a building envelope that breathes and insulates, enhancing acoustic performance as well.
The interior layout prioritizes flexibility and openness: movable partition modules and glazed dividers ensure privacy without compromising visual and light continuity. The technical core is strategically placed in the most shaded area to harness thermal mass, contributing to consistent indoor comfort.
Quartz Plaza is more than just an office building—it is a reflection on the relationship between architecture, geology, and light. A compelling example of how contemporary design can merge aesthetics, efficiency, and a deep sense of place.
CREDITS:
Design: Alper Derinboğaz
Studio: Salon
Photography: Cemal Emden
