Optimal Mimarlık completed a bespoke winter garden and glass roof application in the garden of a villa at Alkent 2000 in Istanbul. The project aimed to transform the outdoor area into a more comfortable living space that could be used during different seasons. Transparent architecture preserving natural daylight was considered together with solar control, thermal insulation, safety and compatibility with the existing building.
Scope of the Alkent 2000 Project
The winter garden was designed to create a protected living area without interrupting the visual connection between the villa and its garden. A thermally insulated HBSB lift-and-slide aluminium door system was installed at the garden transition to complement the uninterrupted view provided by the large glazed surfaces.
The lift-and-slide operating principle enables the large glazed door sash to move easily and in a controlled manner while supporting thermal insulation, air tightness and water tightness when closed. By providing a wide passage opening, the system strengthens the physical connection between the winter garden and the villa garden.
The structural system, glass modules, sliding door connections and junction details were planned in accordance with the architectural dimensions of the existing building. During the application process, the watertightness of the glass roof surfaces, resistance to outdoor conditions and controlled drainage of rainwater were evaluated together. The result was a bright and durable winter garden solution that complements the architectural character of the villa and its garden.
Solar-Control Tempered Laminated Insulating Glass
Solar-control tempered laminated insulating glass was used on the glazed surfaces. The solar-control property helps limit excessive heat caused by direct solar radiation while allowing natural daylight into the space. The insulating glass structure reduces heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments and supports the seasonal comfort of the winter garden.
Tempering increases the mechanical and thermal resistance of the glass. In the event of breakage, the laminated structure helps retain the glass fragments on the interlayer. This feature provides an important safety advantage, particularly for winter gardens and glass roof systems containing overhead glazing.
Design for Year-Round Comfort
The transparent surfaces preserve the garden view and allow daylight to reach the living area. The solar-control and thermally insulating glass was selected to limit solar heat gain during warm periods while supporting indoor comfort during cooler seasons.
Glass joints, structural connections and details exposed to external conditions were considered as an integrated system. This approach contributes to maintaining water and air tightness while reducing the long-term maintenance requirements of the application.
Value Added to the Villa
The Alkent 2000 application transformed the villa garden into a safe and protected living space while preserving natural daylight and its visual relationship with the outdoors. The project reflects Optimal Mimarlık’s integrated approach to architectural design, appropriate glass selection and application detailing in winter garden and glass roof systems.
