ATLAS PASAJI
LAB1 was honoured to contribute to the restoration of this historic site by designing a carefully designed lighting concept for its entrance, circulation areas, and the grand staircase hall leading to the Cinema Museum. Our approach was driven by a deep respect for the building's heritage, aiming to create a simple, inviting, and elegant lighting design that would honour its architectural essence. To achieve this, we sought to touch the historical structure as lightly as possible—both physically and conceptually—allowing the architecture to maintain its prominence while being subtly enhanced by light.
The passage serves as a vital artery, guiding people from the bustling Istiklal Street to four key destinations: the Cinema Hall, the Museum of Turkish Cinema, a covered market, and a street on the opposite side of the building. This continuous flow of movement became a key inspiration for the lighting concept.
Our lighting design reflects the linear nature of the architectural layout, reinforcing the sense of direction and movement. Drawing inspiration from the building's original features, we uncovered a historical detail that allowed us to integrate a track system seamlessly into the existing structure. Spotlights affixed to this track provide focused illumination on the floor, enhancing visibility and safety, while indirect, concealed lighting reveals the beauty of the meticulously restored vaulted ceiling.
This unified linear axis, stretching from Istiklal Street through the heart of the passage, is accentuated by an integration of lighting and architectural elements. The result is a timeless and atmospheric experience that celebrates the building's historical character while offering modern functionality and visual appeal.
The project was recognized as the Best Project of 2021 in the SPACE: Low Budget category at the "darc awards", a London-based international lighting design award.
Completion: 2021
Restoration: T.C. Ministery of Culture and Tourism
Client: Sold Lighting Design & Engineering, TR
Lighting Design: LAB1 Lighting Design, TR
Electrical Project: Sold Lighting Design & Engineering, TR
Design Award: Winner - Darc Awards 2021, Space: Low Budget Category winner