Mitte Reimagines Dormant Istanbul Dome into Contemporary Cafe and Gathering Space
Local People transforms a 23,680-square-foot circular structure in Başakşehir into a vibrant hub.
1Adaptive Transformation of Dormant Dome
Design studio Mitte transformed a dormant dome in Istanbul's residential Başakşehir district into Local People cafe. Spanning 23,680 square feet, the project repurposes an underutilized structure into a community-centric gathering hub. The design emphasizes neighborhood identity by creating a welcoming public social destination within a dense urban landscape.
2Central Willow Tree Anchors Layout
At the heart of the circular floor plan stands a vertical willow tree installation symbolizing community gathering. Serving as an indoor nest, its branches extend toward the exterior to provide natural shade. This centerpiece bridges indoor seating with the outdoor landscape, anchoring the building's central circulation and functional core.
3Concentric Layers Shape Human Flow
The interior layout radiates outward from the central installation in balanced concentric rings. This geometry connects the ground floor smoothly with an elevated mezzanine and a circular outdoor terrace. Mitte aligned every seating cluster and circulation path with the structure's circular rhythm, turning spatial constraints into cohesive organizational flow.
4Sculptural Shading Beneath Glazed Dome
Preserving the original glazed dome maintains the architectural heritage while introducing modern climate control. In collaboration with artist Pınar Çetin, Mitte installed custom textile shading panels beneath the glass. These layered elements filter daylight, soften interior glare, and introduce an expressive, sculptural dimension to the high ceiling.
5Artistic Focus Greets Building Entrance
At the entrance, an amorphous color-gradient artwork encases a structural column, converting functional infrastructure into an aesthetic focal point. This art installation sets an intentional tone upon arrival. It establishes the cafe's creative character while guiding visitors seamlessly from the exterior threshold into the expansive circular dining area.
6Sensory Palettes Evoke Coffee Notes
Inspired by the nearby verdant valley, the color scheme balances rich coffee gradients with neutral earth tones and crisp white surfaces. Mitte selected these gradient tones to translate the diffusion of coffee aroma into a visual language. Dynamic shifts between light and shadow throughout the day continuously alter this tactile atmosphere.
7Regional Craftsmanship and Industrial Accents
To enhance local ties, Mitte sourced construction materials from regional manufacturers. Metal Reklam supplied metal-clad structural columns around the core, while Karo Istanbul provided facade breeze blocks that filter incoming light. Sourcing locally supported customized production, highlighting Turkish craftsmanship alongside a modern, subtle industrial finish throughout the interior.
8Residential Haven Bridges Nature and Community
Local People functions as a sophisticated retreat where residents can gather, work, and unwind daily. By dissolving the boundary between indoors and the adjoining green valley, the cafe models community-driven hospitality design. The intervention demonstrates how challenging architectural relics can successfully evolve into responsive, high-utility social hubs.