Paradiso Palms is a two-story gastro bar located in the Marina district of Mersin. Situated on the terrace level of a building, it is shaped by drawing inspiration from the layers of Mediterranean architecture and the framed coastal views. The conceptual formation derives from the natural existence of colors in nature, creating a design process that is inspired by the intrinsic hues found in the surroundings.
In the design process of the project, the focus is on shaping the space as an interactive and sensory experience that interacts with its surroundings, considering it as a whole. Architectural design decisions draw inspiration from the coastal city context, emphasizing how environmental elements integrate within the space. Transition narratives created within the space and decisions shaping the overall composition aim for the space to go beyond being merely a physical entity, creating an interaction area that establishes a strong connection with the user throughout its life span, aiming for timelessness.
While merging functionality and visual coherence in design, a detailed examination of the memory of the Mediterranean, material diversity, and social habits has been conducted and integrated into the internal narrative of the design. The design focuses on reconnecting users with the world they are already in by introducing familiar elements, aiming to create a sense of a "well-felt place" In this context, the philosophical approach of the space brings forth the essence of "new luxury," emphasizing comfort and naturalness in spatial terms. The fluid floor plan structure facilitates spatial transformation, enhancing the user's impulse to explore and be curious within the space.
Walls created with separators made of earth blocks are not just physical constraints but also semi-permeable spatial elements guiding the user through various experiences on an emotional and perceptual level. Positioned to emphasize a direct encounter with the sea, these separators enable the interior to have an organic unity with the exterior. Semi-permeable walls, offering different potentials from various angles, have been scaled to provide functions that embrace the user with their concave forms, making them feel secure, offering different perspectives, and creating a personalized sense of space.
Material selections, including earth-based materials, have been chosen by considering their aging processes, reflection of climate effects, andsustainability conditions. Emphasis has been placed on supporting multi-layered sustainability through appropriate material choices to design a space that can continue to mature and maintain its natural echoes throughout its life cycle. Materials such as earth blocks, terrazzo, and limestone, continuing to mature and maintain their natural echoes throughout their life cycles, have beenincorporated into the design, taking into account their behavior, maintenance needs, durability, and the feelings they evoke.
While drawing nourishment from the context of the design through local materials, the created material selection ensures the harmonious integration of different patterns and vibrant color palettes with contemporary architecture. The interior and walls of the space are adorned with elements inspired by the landscape of the Mediterranean. Lighting elements, providing asense of strolling through Mediterranean streets, are strategically placed torevive the sensation of wandering during different times of the day. In conclusion, the reinterpretation of greenery, soil, sea, and light has been incorporated into the space to enhance the cycle of social areas and support a sense of belonging.