FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Award-Winning "Tree" Building Design Melds Nature, Innovation, and Community for Startups in Istanbul

Mahdi Ghiasy's "Tree" building design, completed in March 2025 in Istanbul, stands as a testament to the power of architecture to inspire growth and foster community. Conceived as a supportive hub for young entrepreneurs and startups, the complex eliminates traditional office startup costs while providing a vibrant space for collaboration and learning. Drawing inspiration from the image of a bud growing into an old tree, the building's form and function are carefully intertwined to reflect themes of birth, growth, and sustainability.

The three-story structure is divided into two main sections: an office space and a cafe located below street level. Central to the design is a preserved tree, symbolizing the project's commitment to environmental harmony. The building features a central void that channels sunlight, a cafe roof inspired by the whirling dance of Sama, and a concrete facade made from GFRC panels that filter sunlight and manage Istanbul's intense daylight. The entrance stairs, reminiscent of musical notes, invite visitors to ascend and symbolize progress, while traditional Iranian tiles and handmade bricks enrich the building's cultural and aesthetic appeal.

Ghiasy's approach emphasizes interaction with the surrounding environment, ensuring the structure is both inviting and responsive to its urban context. The innovative use of materials, including a waffle-form roof and custom-made elements, distinguishes the building as a landmark. The project's design process embraced challenges such as integrating multiple uses-cafe, bookstore, and digital shopping complex-while preserving the site's existing tree and maximizing accessibility. The result is a dynamic, sustainable space that encourages social interaction, creativity, and growth, making "Tree" a deserving recipient of the Iron A' Design Award.

-END-