During the early days of the Ottoman Empire, Karamursel emerged as the town where the first shipyard was established. Positioned strategically, the town and shipyard played a vital role as a naval base for the conquest of Istanbul. The first ships of the empire have been built in this shipyard. To commemorate this historically significant heritage, it is decided to build a Maritime Museum along the picturesque coast of Karamursel.

Rethinking The Future Awards 2024
Second Award | Cultural (Concept)

Project Name: KARAMURSEL MARITIME MUSEUM
Studio Name: UMM – ULUDAG ARCHITECTURE

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©UMM – ULUDAG ARCHITECTURE

The museum is expected to be a landmark and an attraction point that can be visible both from the landside and the sea. The chosen form and the structure of the building has a symbolic meaning which is inspired from the image of the sailboats. The formation of this symbolic form is designed to create a landmark and an impressive image as a museum embodying a new era of interactive engagement with the city. The distinctive roof configuration not only establishes the museum as a prominent landmark but also grants diverse interior spaces, each offering unique spatial encounters. Its roof dynamically adapts to accommodate various functions, crafting an iconic silhouette that mimics the sails of the sailboats billowing with the wind.

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©UMM – ULUDAG ARCHITECTURE

Beyond showcasing the collections, the museum attracts visitors with its transparent surfaces, unveiling surprising and enchanting vistas. Angular walls, roof openings, and translucent elements guide visitors through the exhibition spaces, shaping their movement within the building. The proposed upper-level terrace amplifies the utilization of open exhibition areas, further enhancing the building’s panoramic viewpoints. The daylight and the artificial lighting have been used in harmony to increase the visual impact of specific exhibition areas, augmenting the overall immersive experience.

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©UMM – ULUDAG ARCHITECTURE

The Karamursel Maritime Museum epitomizes a fusion of art and functionality, beckoning visitors to explore its rich collection while enveloped in an ambiance that harmonizes with the surrounding cityscape.