Garajistanbul – A Neutral Space for Performing Arts

Garajistanbul is a space transformation project for performing arts where the “objet trouvé” being a former car park and the “objet transformé” being a platform for stage arts. The Space consists of three zones: The entrance of the Garage which is the continuation of the Street, the Foyer which is designed as a transitive zone and the Black Box which in every way is the Neutral Space which can easily be adapted to whatever activity is taking place between its planes.

The 600 sqm large surface of the “garage” is covered with industrial grade polished concrete on to which all kinds of platforms, special surfaces and coverings can be easily applied. The ceiling consists the technical backbone of the entire structure. A steel grid of 1x1m  spans the entire space including the foyer providing a base for all the technical requirements such as cables, lighting, sound, special equipment etc. On top of the ceiling grid and beneath the dark painted wall coverings lies an extensive set of sound deadners which provide the acoustic comfort of the garage.

Along with the freestanding seating system and all the mobile platforms, Garajistanbul provides a capacity of 10 to 600 spectators according to the performance.

The original venue designed and built in 2005 by MArS-Architects underwent a major renovation and redesign in 2011 when it was adapted to suit a wider range of music and stage events. Unfortunatey Garajistanbul closed its doors in 2018 and the venue no longer exists.