Kocaeli International Fair Center
Year2023
LocationKocaeli, Turkey
ClientKocaeli Metropolitan Municipality
StatusOngoing
Area180000 m²
TypologyCommercial, Cultural
TeamAli Önalp, Burak Yardımcı, Halil İbrahim Bayındır, Melis Üsküner, Seda Kambolat, Yeşim Demir
EngineeringTümaş
Responding to the economic and industrial dynamics of the region, the Kocaeli International Fair Center is envisioned as a large-scale facility to accommodate regional exhibition, trade, and event needs.
Located on a site of approximately 175,000 m², the complex includes six exhibition halls, a major conference center, hotel, commercial units, and a variety of open and semi-open public spaces. Designed to support year-round activity, the center integrates multiple functions into a coherent and efficient structure.
The architectural layout adapts to the natural slope of the terrain with a terraced massing strategy. User circulation, service access, and vehicular parking are embedded into the spatial organization with a focus on clarity and operational flow.
The project combines exhibition halls designed to meet international standards with congress and commercial functions, all framed within a contemporary architectural language that establishes visual and physical connections to the city.
Pedestrian and vehicular flows are clearly separated. Outdoor areas are designed as encounter and orientation zones, improving user comfort and experience. The hotel and commercial units can function either independently or concurrently with the fairground, allowing year-round use and adaptability.
The underground parking structure is planned not to interfere with exhibition operations, and each function has its own public-oriented entrance plaza, enhancing spatial identity and accessibility.
