Denizbank Aquarium: A New Generation Working Environment

Kontra Architecture's Award-Winning Office Design Inspired by the Sea

The design of Denizbank Aquarium is unlike any other. It is a metaphorical journey of a venture through an aquarium, sea, and ocean. The design's core strength lies in its ability to increase creativity and productivity by providing an unconventional and comfortable atmosphere. The use of acoustic panels depicting the sea and water movement, along with textured material choices referencing the submarine world, immerses users in an ocean-like environment.

The realization of this design involved a blend of contrasting colors and natural materials to create a vibrant and balanced space. Modules with low ceilings and isolated seating groups were designed to increase employees' sense of belonging and comfort. The design also considered the importance of daylight movement in employee wellbeing. A lighting system that mimics daylight was designed to harmonize with the users' motivation and circadian rhythm, considering the long hours they spend indoors.

One of the significant challenges faced during the design process was the office's location in the basement, which limited daylight access. This limitation inspired the project's name, 'Aquarium.' The challenge was overcome through strategic spatial planning, innovative material choices, and an innovative lighting system that keeps motivation high.

The Denizbank Aquarium project started in December 2019 and was completed in November 2020 at Denizbank HQ in Istanbul. The design team, led by founder Gülşah Cantaş, included designer Cengiz Bozal, project manager Hacer Dogan, interior designers Eda Bozkurt and Burak Gobut. Their collective effort resulted in a design that not only met the project's objectives but also earned recognition.

This design was awarded the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2021. The Silver A' Design Award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.