TOPKAPI PALACE, IMPERIAL KITCHENS, CHINESE PORCELAIN EXHIBITION DESIGN

he problem of this conceptual project was to re-design the Chinese porcelain exhibition space in Imperial Kitchens in Topkapi Palace. The main idea of the project was to display the historic exhibition space itself as well as the Chinese porcelains in the collection. In order to let visitors to differentiate the time periods of the exhibition space and to pay attention to the “old”, contrast between “old” and “new” materials were aimed. Thus, contemporary materials were proposed in the circulation path and display design. The space has very high domes, which were functioning as chimneys. In the other hand, the floor plan is relatively narrow. Thus, while circulating in the space, it is difficult for the visitors to be aware of the most significant part of the space, the domes and the chimneys. As a design solution, mirrors are placed at the center of the exhibition displays, in order to attract attention up to the domes.
ISTANBUL TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY
GRADUATE STUDIO PROJECT III
FALL 2007-2008

Plan and Sections in 1/50 detail

Plan and Sections in 1/20 detail (3D Images by Bilal Cay)

Plan and Sections in 1/50 detail