ESCA | URBANJOBS

ESCA translates the design ethos “Simply Mediterranean” into space, bringing the understated yet sophisticated spirit of the Mediterranean to İzmir İstinyePark. For Urbanjobs, the starting point of the design was to reflect the warmth, sincerity, and layered lifestyle of Mediterranean culture within the interior.

One of the primary challenges encountered by the project team was the amorphous geometry of the leased space. This condition required a highly precise planning process in order to create an environment that was both technically well-resolved and atmospherically compelling. The position of the existing main fire staircase, located one level above, necessitated the integration of an internal connection stair. This stair had to provide direct access to both the main dining hall and the kitchen, while simultaneously complying with fire safety regulations through the inclusion of dedicated fire escape lobbies—all achieved with minimal loss of usable floor area.

The spatial organization also demanded that soiled dishware arriving from the dining hall be directed first to the dishwashing and dirty holding areas, while maintaining efficient access to the cold storage and dry storage facilities via the existing service elevator. This requirement led to the creation of a compact lobby solution in front of the elevator, minimizing circulation inefficiencies. Given the irregular boundaries of the unit, accommodating essential functions such as storage areas, restrooms for both guests and staff, an office, and a dedicated private dining room required careful and efficient organization. The decision to locate the bar at the heart of the layout, together with the integration of the exterior seating area as an extension of the interior experience, proved to be a defining move that reinforced the overall character of the project.

At the heart of the restaurant lies a sculptural bar, both the center of social interaction and the focal point of the design. With its 360° usability, marble surface, and bronze details, the bar leaves a lasting impression on the spatial memory. Circulation flows fluidly around this central element, establishing continuous visual and spatial connections between the dining hall, bar, private dining room, and open terrace.

The main dining hall, originally an outdoor terrace, has been transformed into a space with the qualities of an interior thanks to a carefully considered material palette and lighting strategy. Textured wood panels, travertine flooring, earthy-toned furniture, and meticulously selected textiles lend the space distinct atmospheres during the day and night. Tropical greenery enhances this setting, carrying the lightness and natural essence of İzmir’s coastal culture indoors.

The private dining area offers a more intimate and theatrical experience, distinguished by a dramatic wall mural and a denser lighting scenario. On the other side, the fully open-air terrace embodies Mediterranean sociability and a sense of freedom, adding another layer that completes the restaurant as a whole.

Light emerges as one of the most powerful tools of the design. During the day, streaks of sunlight filtering through the overhangs animate the space, while in the evenings, the warm glow of concealed lighting transforms the atmosphere. This duality allows the restaurant to provide a dynamic experience across different times of day.

Ultimately, ESCA is a restaurant born out of a challenging spatial typology, telling a refined and inviting Mediterranean story through the central role of the bar, a balanced spatial composition, and the emotive interplay of material and light. In this project, Urbanjobs’ design approach manifests as an identity shaped out of constraints—blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior and placing social interaction at its core.