A Primal Space Gets a Swanky, Modern Twist in This Turkish Cave Loft
Material imperfections mimic nature in the design of this weekend getaway.
When architect Hasan Ayata devised the design for the Cave Loft in Kayseri, Turkey, he wanted to offer guests a space that they wouldn't typically occupy in today’s urban landscape: a cave.
Ayata’s goal was to "blend the authentic spirit of this magnificent ready-made structure" with modern additions, he explains. To begin, he installed a system of vents to guarantee proper airflow in the space. He then preserved the integrity of the existing structure by creating a special plaster from on-site soil and rocks, which would be used to bolster the cave walls and archways.
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
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The stones in the terrazzo floor were procured from quarries in the region and arranged by hand to ensure harmony between the unique sizes. To further emulate amorphous elements found in nature, wood in varying colors and textures was also integrated into the design. Subtle lighting built into the floors and furniture punctuates the space, enhancing both the cave’s imperfect archways and contemporary flair.
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
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Knoll Platner Lounge Chair
As America entered into the 1960s, modernism started becoming more expressive, and designers began to celebrate more decorative, graceful shapes. After a stint of working for Eero Saarinen and Associates, designer Warren Platner became known for producing the second generation of pedestal and wire furniture. In 1966, the Platner Lounge Chair was born, which came from an effort to bring these more gentle designs to the home—similar to the period style of Louis XV, but with “a more rational base.” Knoll reports Platner’s reasoning: “I thought, why separate support from the object. Just make it all one thing.” To create this enveloping structure, he worked with Knoll to produce a base that’s made by welding vertical steel rods into circular and semicircular frames. The shell is constructed of molded fiberglass and holds molded latex foam cushions. Available in a range of upholstery options, the collection also includes the Arm Chair, Easy Chair, and Coffee Table—all of which can be purchased in a gold finish. Photo courtesy of Knoll
ShopKnoll Platner Side Table
If you combined the work of I.M. Pei and Eero Saarinen, the result might very well look like the Platner Collection (1962). Warren Platner worked with both of the industrial and organic design giants before turning his attention to steel wire furniture, for which he devised the structure and production method. Requiring as many as 1,000 welds and crafted out of wire and space, the Coffee Table demonstrates Platner's belief that there is room in modernism "for the kind of decorative, gentle, graceful design that appeared in a period style like Louis XV." Constructed of steel and finished in bright nickel or 18-karat plated gold with a clear lacquer protective coating, the table has a clear plastic extrusion ring surrounding its base to protect floors and ensure a level tabletop. The tabletop is made of 0.4-inch-thick tempered glass. The Platner Collection is Greenguard Indoor Air Quality Certified for low-emitting products. Manufactured by Knoll® according to the original and exacting specifications of the designer. Made in Italy. Photo courtesy of Design Within Reach
ShopPhoto by: Burak Özşahin
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
Photo by: Burak Özşahin
Related Reading: This Off-Grid Turkish Cabin Features a Nifty Pulley System
Project Credits:
Architect + Builder of Record: Hasan Ayata Design Studio
Lighting Design Company of Record: Hasan Ayata Design Studio
Interior Designer of Record: Hasan Ayata Design Studio
Sound Engineer of Record: Hasan Ayata Design Studio
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