# 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.

- **Source:** [Design MilkArchitecture, Architectural Designs, and House Designs | Design Milk](https://brifing.si/source/5d8362a6-0dbb-41cc-9b0e-4e8cac0c9318)
- **Published:** 2026-10-12
- **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design)
- **Original article:** <https://design-milk.com/local-people-cafe-istanbul/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/d9c14f92-54b5-4797-915f-012c8a1e3577

## Adaptive 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.

## Central 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.

## Concentric 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.

## Sculptural 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.

## Artistic 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.

## Sensory 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.

## Regional 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.

## Residential 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.

## Sources covering this story

- https://design-milk.com/local-people-cafe-istanbul/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._