NoXX Apartment / CM Mimarlik

Architects: CM Mimarlik
Area: 128 m²
Year: 2013
Photography: Cemal Emden
Project Team: Cem Sorguc, Sezin Ergene, Elvan Cakıt, Tolga Yaglı, Amina Rezoug, Deniz Gezgin
Structural Project: Ozcihan, Akgul Muhendislik Musavirlik
Electrical Project: Tasarim Proje
Construction Consultant: Oguz Cem Celik
Mechanical Consultant: Neva Proje
City: Istanbul
Country: Turkey

NoXX Apartment in Cihangir, Istanbul, designed by CM Mimarlik, effectively addresses the constraints of its location on a narrow dead-end street and the limited timeframe for construction. Completed in 2013, the building showcases a steel structure approach, chosen as traditional building methods were impractical under the circumstances. This choice not only accommodates the site constraints but also embraces an industrial aesthetic that pays homage to the early 20th-century buildings in the area. The apartment emphasizes this aesthetic both inside and out, with visible composite structures and custom-made bricks on the facade that create dynamic shading and bird roosts. It houses seven studio flats, including duplex units, all designed to capture maximum natural light, further enhancing the living experience within the urban setting.

The building’s underground levels are constructed from reinforced concrete, while the upper floors are designed with a steel structure. Both the interior and exterior feature exposed composite elements, deliberately left unfinished without plaster, paint, or cladding.

The building is adjacent to another on one side, and regulations required the opposite facade to be blind wall. This facade consists of a steel frame with insulation materials and brick walls on both sides. Custom-made bricks are arranged unevenly on the facade, creating natural patterns that cast varying linear shadows throughout the day, adding visual interest. These protrusions also serve as bird roosts.

The front and rear facades are designed to be as wide as possible to maximize natural light, with living rooms opening onto French balconies.

NoXX Apartment caters to the lifestyle and needs of the area, comprising seven studio flats, each around 60-70 m², including two attic duplexes ad a garden duplex. The building is equipped with smart infrastructure, including Wi-Fi, fire, and theft alarms.