Karapinar, Konya, Turkey

Providing not only a sleek aesthetic but also a dynamic visual element, Istanbul-based Bilgin Architects designs an efficient structure, cladding the builing in shimmering steel panels that reflect the desert landscape and the 1,350 MW solar plant.

The shimmering effect of the panels enhances the building’s presence, catching the light and creating a play of reflections that animate the structure throughout the day.

This innovative design approach not only serves functional purposes but also contributes to the overall visual appeal and identity of the control center, making it a striking landmark in its urban context.

Due to its natural characteristics, this particular region was designated as an energy specialization area due to its transformation into unsuitable agricultural land coupled with its significant energy potential resulting from its desert climate.

“In the challenging geography of a desert, an interface representing new energy technologies in a flat topography extending to the horizon,” explains Bilgin Architects.

“This interface, an extension of the 3.2 million solar panels in the region, is positioned 40 meters away from the existing solar panels and in the same direction, in an area that will not cast shadows on the panels.”

The façades of the building are designed not only as an architectural element but also as a part of the earth and even the sky.

Thanks to the high reflectance levels of the facades, the building becomes integrated with the geography it inhabits.

The silhouette on the horizon continues on the façades.

While ensuring meticulous energy usage, the façade design also serves as a significant part of the building’s identity consisting of two layers, and is designed to minimize the radiation falling on the main facade.

This secondary façade, which prevents high heat exposures for most of the year, is formed by 7,200 stainless steel panels at four different transparency levels.

The façade design is based on parameters such as geographical direction, surrounding space, and optimum light requirements while creating a non-repetitive, unique pattern.

Due to its reflective surface, the material changes color, providing a passive kinetic experience in a variety of lighting conditions throughout the day.

On cloudy days, the boundaries of the facade become blurred.

The façade becomes not only a part of the building but also a part of the sky.

As the night falls, the façade turns inside out, contrasting with the experience in daylight and revealing the interiors and courtyard at night.

This single-story building, detached from the ground, offers different experiential spaces at the intersection of humans, nature, and technology.

While the façade takes on a reflective role for the surroundings, it forms a gentle barrier like a sheer curtain for the interior.

The foyer area, where boundaries are blurred, welcomes visitors with a courtyard facade.

This series of spaces extending to the cafeteria and multipurpose hall is designed with infrastructure that can host various organizations, events, panels, and workshops.

A similar opposing situation in the design of the facade is also present in the courtyard of the building.

In the center of the structure, a lush courtyard has been positioned, creating a contrast to the arid texture of the region.

This courtyard, designed with endemic plant species requiring minimal irrigation and maintenance, establishes a sustainable microclimate.

The courtyard determines all circulation areas and space hierarchies of the building while functioning as a sheltered resting and activity area against harsh climate conditions.

While shaping circulation areas nested on its perimeter, the courtyard separates the building’s private and common areas.

Project: Kalyon Karapınar 1.350 MWp SPP – Central Control Building
Architects: Bilgin Architects ( Bilgin Mimari Tasarım)
Lead Architects: Caner Bilgin and Begum Yilmaz Bilgin
Desing Team: Caner Bilgin, Begüm Yılmaz Bilgin, Cem Katkat, Serenay Gürkan, Elif Özüçağlıyan, and Yıldırım Erbaz
Main Contractor: Kalyon Construction
Client: Kalyon Energy
Photographers: Egemen Karakaya