112
Emergency Call Center 112 Interiors
Keywords
Design
Built
Retrofit
Pre-UA
Biophilic
Location
Bakırköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Year
2011
In designing the interior of the emergency call center, architect Nilüfer Kozikoğlu introduced a thoughtful and innovative approach to acoustic management, essential in the context of a 112 emergency response call center in Istanbul, Turkiye. This 300-square-meter workspace operates around the clock, coordinating critical patient transfers from various urban locations to hospitals, distinguishing it from typical call centers. The unique demands of this environment necessitate an optimal blend of acoustic and ergonomic design to minimize noise and enhance concentration.
Kozikoğlu’s design features ceiling-mounted acoustic panels and floor-standing desk separators, which utilize advanced geometric patterns tailored to reduce noise dispersion within the space. Through parametric analysis, the studio examined the specific acoustical needs of the call center, analyzing sound flow and dispersion patterns to inform the design of industrial components that enhance acoustic control. The resulting design elements are integrated seamlessly into the space, establishing a layered and effective sound-dampening system that supports both the employees' focus and communication clarity.
This design solution goes beyond traditional office acoustics by addressing the intensity of 24/7 emergency call center operations. The ceiling panels are arranged in vertical, suspended fabric layers, each one strategically placed to capture and control noise reflection. For the walls, exposed oriented strand board (OSB) panels add another dimension to acoustic control, while visually highlighting the material’s raw texture. To further optimize surface acoustics, Kozikoğlu incorporated rubber layers between double gypsum board walls and selected carpeting that dampens foot traffic noise. The combination of textures and colors, raw wood, polished finishes, and colorful accents, provides a visual balance that keeps the environment vibrant yet soothing, an ideal balance for this high-pressure workspace.
The space also features custom LED lighting and plywood furniture, designed in collaboration with the Aydınlatma Merkezi and Zemin Architecture. The LED lighting plan optimizes brightness while minimizing glare, complementing the acoustic features with tailored illumination to reduce visual fatigue. Additionally, the team coordinated HVAC integration within the ceiling panels to create an uninterrupted and streamlined environment that preserves both comfort and functionality.
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