Colgate Türkiye Office: Freshness Meets Functional Design

Yasin Altipat crafts an innovative, biophilic workspace in Istanbul

Located on the 21st floor of a contemporary Istanbul tower, the Colgate Türkiye office stands as a testament to the evolving nature of workplace environments. Designed by Yasin Altipat, the 950-square-meter space harmonizes freshness, trust, and health—core values of the Colgate brand—through a sophisticated interplay of natural light, biophilic elements, and flexible spatial organization. The project’s elliptical form and glass façade maximize daylight, offering panoramic sea views and a seamless connection to the city’s green spaces.

Altipat’s approach prioritizes both collaboration and individual well-being. Open work areas, social zones, meeting rooms, and relaxation corners are thoughtfully integrated, creating a warm and energetic atmosphere. The use of corporate colors, natural materials, and living plants fosters a biophilic environment, supporting productivity while enhancing tranquility. Flexible spaces cater to diverse working styles, transforming the office into a dynamic space of experience rather than a traditional workspace.

Technical innovation underpins the design’s success. The building’s mechanical infrastructure was meticulously aligned with the direction of sunlight, addressing the unique cooling requirements of a glass-fronted high-rise. Areas exposed to intense sunlight were equipped with enhanced cooling systems, while the north-facing zones required less intervention. This strategic approach not only optimized comfort but also contributed to the project’s sustainability goals.

Research played a pivotal role in shaping the office’s layout. Social areas and meeting rooms were positioned to capitalize on extraordinary sea views, while rest zones for the team were placed along the south façade. This arrangement, informed by detailed exploration, encourages multi-purpose use and maximizes the benefits of natural light. The integration of living plants and natural textures further reinforces the office’s connection to nature, promoting peace and well-being among employees.

The Colgate Türkiye office has been recognized with a Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, celebrating its creative ingenuity and contribution to quality of life improvements. The project exemplifies best practices in art, science, and technology, setting a new standard for inclusive and sustainable office design in Turkey and beyond.

By merging aesthetic appeal with functional excellence, Yasin Altipat’s design for Colgate Türkiye demonstrates how thoughtful architecture can elevate workplace culture, inspire innovation, and foster a sense of community.