A bookshelf in an Istanbul apartment draws attention not only for its height but also for its deliberate gaps. Designed by ACARARCH, the two-story structure incorporates a staircase that winds through the shelves, yet many sections remain unfilled. This emptiness is intentional, meant to adapt as the owner’s collection expands over time.
The Library’s Flexible Design
The shelving system was built around the owner’s existing books, but the architects avoided filling every space immediately. They created an adaptable framework that can welcome new items—books, art, or decorative pieces—without requiring structural modifications. The design combines horizontal shelves with vertical partitions, allowing for varied sizes and shapes while maintaining visual harmony across the double-height wall.
The staircase embedded within the bookshelf serves both a practical and decorative purpose. Its pale steps ascend diagonally through the dark wood, aligning with the shelving’s horizontal lines. From the seating area, the staircase and shelves appear as a unified architectural element, with books and artwork visible around the steps. The open framework, paired with large windows, ensures natural light illuminates the space, creating a contrast between the shelving’s deep tones and the brightness of the room.
A Home Built for Change
The renovation overhauled the apartment’s original layout, which had included four bedrooms and multiple bathrooms. Since the owner spends most of their time abroad, the need for so many separate rooms diminished. ACARARCH removed most internal walls, merging the living room, kitchen, workspace, and exercise area into a single open-plan space. Only the guest bedroom was kept as a private area.
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The kitchen reflects the same integrated approach, featuring a large central island adjacent to the dining space. Dark wood cabinetry complements the rest of the design, reinforcing the apartment’s seamless flow. This continuity ensures that different functional zones blend into one cohesive environment.
Balancing City Views and Privacy
The apartment’s raised position offers panoramic views of Istanbul, but ACARARCH addressed privacy concerns carefully. While the living and dining areas include expansive glass walls, the bedroom and bathroom were designed with narrow, enclosed balconies filled with plants. These green spaces act as a transitional buffer, softening the shift between indoor and outdoor perspectives.
The bathroom extends this strategy further, positioning the washbasin and shower near the planted areas. This arrangement distinguishes the bathroom from the open living room, where uninterrupted city views are a defining feature. The greenery also helps diffuse natural light, adding warmth to the more private spaces.
Beyond visual considerations, the renovation included functional improvements. The original structure was reduced to its concrete core, and soundproofing was added to walls, floors, and ceilings to minimize noise from neighboring units. Motorized blinds and windows control sunlight and airflow, ensuring comfort while preserving the apartment’s connection to the city.
