Ulus Contemporary Culture and Art Center

Location 
Ankara, TR

Client
Ankara Metropolitan Municipality

Year
2021

Size
9370m²

Team Members
Bilge Altuğ, Mehmet Metin Polat

Awards
2nd Prize

The Ulus district is an important example of Ankara's multilayered structure and it offers the basis for the different layers in the project that is located here. These layers derive from its central location, rich history and the transformation that occured in both republic and post republic eras.

The spatial diversity created by this transformation is envisioned to flourish with the new functions in the architectural program and to provide purport to the existing character of Ulus.

The mentioned characteristics of the project location in Ulus are to be preserved. In this sense, the main question for design is; "how to create a building for cultural activities in this commercial district, that creates a whole with its surroundings, while conserving the multi layers of the genius loci of its location." One of the first decisions derived from this question is to design the ground level that connects the building to its whereabouts. Almost all of the spaces in the functional program are to be used by the public but the aim was to include all citizens to the structure even if they're not actively using the building for its functions. Therefore the ground level is designed to be "nearly empty".

The space is an inviting entrance for the the main functions of the building that are above or below this level. It also provides the building a chance to stand at an equal distance to the streets in connection, as well as all of the neighbour buildings that are historically significant. The ground level design ensures people to reach the building from every direction.

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