Architectural Cases

In Istanbul, the Beymen Tersane project by OMA is breathing new life into a section of the Tersane-i Âmire, the venerable Ottoman Imperial Arsenal. This site, once a pivotal hub for naval manufacturing spanning four centuries, is currently undergoing a extensive revitalization to become a vibrant mixed-use waterfront area. This ambitious transformation aims to feature a variety of amenities, including hotels, cultural institutions, retail outlets, and inviting public areas, meticulously designed to honor its historical roots while embracing a contemporary future.

OMA's design approach for Beymen Tersane thoughtfully navigates the challenge of integrating a modern luxury retail experience within a structure steeped in industrial heritage. The architects have focused on preserving the authentic character of the original arsenal buildings, characterized by their robust materials like steel, stone, and brick, while introducing sleek, contemporary interventions. This juxtaposition creates a dynamic environment where the past informs the present, offering visitors a unique blend of historical grandeur and cutting-edge commercial functionality. The project stands as a testament to the power of architectural adaptation, allowing a significant historical landmark to serve new purposes and engage a modern audience.

The Beymen Tersane initiative is more than just a retail development; it is a significant step in urban regeneration. With its expansive area of 12,000 square meters and a projected completion in 2026, the project is poised to become a landmark within Istanbul's redeveloped waterfront. By curating a space that respects its heritage while boldly stepping into the future, OMA and The Beymen Group are contributing to a narrative of renewal, sustainability, and cultural continuity for one of Istanbul's most historically significant sites.

This transformative project exemplifies the potential of adaptive reuse, demonstrating how historical structures can be reimagined to meet contemporary needs without sacrificing their inherent value. It fosters a connection between past and present, inspiring a deeper appreciation for architectural legacy while driving forward urban development and economic vitality. Beymen Tersane promises to be a place where history, commerce, and culture converge, offering a rich and engaging experience for all who visit.

The Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has been chosen to conceptualize and construct a cutting-edge STEM university campus in Arkansas, United States. This significant undertaking, positioned on the former Walmart headquarters grounds near downtown Bentonville, encompasses three distinct structures spanning two urban blocks. Collaborating with Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects, who will serve as the project's official architect, the campus is set to integrate academic spaces, innovation hubs, student housing, and vibrant public areas.

This ambitious campus design seeks to blur the lines between academia and the broader community, fostering a dynamic environment for both students and residents. The layout strategically incorporates green areas and public gathering spots, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the Ozark region. Architect Thomas Christoffersen from BIG highlights that the master plan aims to "dissolve barriers between the campus and the community, creating a lively, integrated neighborhood for both faculty and citizens." This initiative is expected to significantly enhance access to higher education, making it both academically and socially approachable.

The three primary buildings, while unique in function, share a harmonious aesthetic characterized by earthy tones and similar facade treatments. The makerspace, spanning 130,614 square feet, is designed as a series of stacked vitrines, showcasing workshops, laboratories, and flexible communal areas, making internal activities visible to the street. The 147,525-square-foot academic building features an open central atrium, classrooms, and lab facilities, echoing Ozark vernacular architecture with its dogtrot breezeway and stacked design. The student residential building, accommodating 400 students, is laid out in a figure-eight configuration, creating elevated courtyards that offer scenic views and communal amenities.

The makerspace’s exterior will feature Corten steel, chosen for its ability to develop a rich patina that reflects the region's industrial legacy. The academic building, with its curved metal facade, references the interlocking timber elements found in traditional Northwest Arkansas log homes, suggesting a blend of tradition and modernity. The student residence further emphasizes community and connection to nature through its unique layout and outdoor spaces, creating a holistic and inviting educational environment. This thoughtful integration of design, community, and local heritage promises a campus that is both functional and deeply rooted in its surroundings.