Unveiling the Expo 2016 Antalya Observation Tower by Nita Architects

Antalya: Jewel of the Mediterranean

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Antalya boasts a rich tapestry of ancient history amidst breathtaking natural scenery. With its temperate climate, basking in an average of 35°C and 300 days of sunshine annually, Antalya stands as a vibrant tourist destination, captivating visitors from around the globe.

Expo 2016 Antalya: Embracing Nature’s Splendor

Centered around the theme “Flowers and Children,” Expo 2016 Antalya epitomized a celebration of botanical wonders and sustainable living. Spanning an expansive area of 1,100,000 m² (110 ha), the event sought to weave together the beauty of nature with innovative design. At its core lay the need for an iconic tower to symbolize the essence of the expo, leading to an architectural competition to conceptualize the structure.

Concept and Design Inspiration

The inception of the tower was rooted in the thematic elements of “Flowers and Children” and the essence of Antalya’s heritage. The design aimed to seamlessly integrate with the event’s master plan while paying homage to the city’s cultural heritage through understated yet powerful architectural lines.

Functional Elegance: Tower Features

Standing tall at 101 meters above ground level, the observation tower offers a mesmerizing 360° panoramic view of the Expo site and Antalya’s scenic beauty. The circular view deck, spanning 1500 m², seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the splendor of their surroundings.

Harmonious Circulation and Form

The tower’s design prioritizes efficient circulation, with three vertical cores housing panoramic elevators, fire exits, and service elevators. Symbolically, the convergence of three open petals at the peak echoes the iconic Hadrian’s Gate, a testament to Antalya’s rich historical legacy.

Symbolizing Expo 2016 and Antalya

At its core, the tower stands as a symbol of Expo 2016 and Antalya, embodying the spirit of the event and the essence of the city’s identity. Its striking silhouette serves as a beacon of progress and innovation, drawing visitors to experience the cultural richness of Antalya.

Innovative Design Solutions

Incorporating innovative design solutions, the tower features a convex formation on its upper facade, providing solar heat protection and serving as a sunshade. The perforated aluminum facade controls sunlight penetration while creating a visually stunning aesthetic.

Versatile Viewing Experience

The tower offers both open and closed viewing decks, catering to various seasons and weather conditions. From the expansive open deck on the 101st level to the intimate roof deck, visitors can enjoy unparalleled views of Antalya’s beauty throughout the year.

As a testament to architectural ingenuity and cultural celebration, the Expo 2016 Antalya Observation Tower stands as a timeless symbol of Antalya’s vibrant spirit and its commitment to sustainable living.