Established in 2003 by Seyhan Özdemir and Sefer Çağlar, Autoban is a design studio operating in the fields of interior design, architecture and product development.
The foundations of Autoban were laid in the Galata district of Istanbul, taking its name from the architectural landmark tower. The tall guillotine windows of the duo’s studio overlook the city’s historic quarter with panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Inspired by the chaos of the mega city, contrasts, contradictions and the co-existence of otherwise autonomous elements are all trademarks of Autoban projects and products. With solid foundations based on architectural principles, a modernist twist is often complementary to traditional components that find life in new interpretations and contexts.
Developing interior environments for retail and residential purposes, Autoban works with the leaders of a range of industries. From retail design for upscale department stores to movie theatres, cafes, restaurants and hotels; each space excels above any other for the unique living experience it offers.
Autoban has a narrative approach to interior design. Working from scratch, a storyline is developed where the furniture become characters and the spaces have a soul and a past.
Authenticity is an invariable attribute in all projects that wistfully work traditional elements with contemporary design and architecture. Transcending the borders of interior design, Autoban creates unique experiences and offers a lifestyle where spaces are not made but discovered. As every story has a leading role, the stories that Autoban create, are led by arresting products that Özdemir and Çağlar together develop. Knowledge of material and technique are ever present in character designs that are striking in form yet never abstaining from function. Every Autoban product has a unique character, reflecting both designers’ playful approach to “almost cliché” items. The designers cite the material and its capabilities as the inspiration for each design, but as the product names imply, Autoban’s designs are also highly influenced by nature and the rituals of daily life. Becoming keynote in any interior, Autoban products are best summarized as emotionally expressive, visually inspiring objects with a timeless, pleasure-to-live-with quality.
Over the past few years, Autoban was named "Best Young Designers" by Wallpaper magazine in 2004; "Best Newcomer" by Blueprint magazine at 2005’s 100% Design; was awarded with the "Best Restaurant" design in 2006 by Wallpaper magazine for the interiors of Muzedechanga, an Istanbul-based restaurant; and most recently, the boutique hotel design for Witt Istanbul Suites was listed in the Conde Nast Traveler Hot List 2009.
In 2006, Autoban opened a gallery space in Istanbul simply named Autoban Gallery -showcasing the best of their continually developing product designs. Since 2007, Autoban has been collaborating with one of the leaders of contemporary furniture design in the world: De La Espada. The products benefit from the complementary expertise of the two design firms. Autoban maintains creative control while De
La Espada realises the designs through premium materials and expert craftsmanship. AWARDS AWARDS AWARDS AWARDS
Best Young Designers / 2004 Best Young Designers / 2004 Best Young Designers / 2004 Best Young Designers / 2004
Cutting edge style magazine Wallpaper was on the hunt for up-and-coming designers and they placed Autoban among the five “Best Young Designers” of the world. The announcement was made in the January 2005 issue featuring a photo image of all the winning designers shot together at a London location.
Best New Comer / 2005 Best New Comer / 2005 Best New Comer / 2005 Best New Comer / 2005
In September 2005, Autoban was in London to launch at UK’s leading contemporary furniture and interiors event - 100% Design. As well as the products, their stand and promotional material designs were appreciated enough for them to be short listed as the “Best New Comer” and Autoban returned home with the award in hand.
Bursary Winner / 2005 Bursary Winner / 2005 Bursary Winner / 2005 Bursary Winner / 2005
On their first appearance at 100% Design, Autoban received a special bursary prize from the 100% Design Advisory Panel. The award was most welcomed as it generated a great buzz from the international press.
EXHIBITIONS
2009
London Design Festival, UK
Copenhagen Design Week, Denmark
Istanbul Design Weekend, Turkey
Sofia Design Week, Bulgaria
2008
Zona Tortona, Milan Fair, Milano, Italy
2007
100% Design, London, UK
ICFF, New York, USA
2006
100% Design, London, UK
ICFF, New York, USA
2005
100% Design, London, UK
Maison&Objet, Paris, France
2004
AD Design Fair, Istanbul, Turkey
Saloon du Meuble / Design Lab., Paris, France
2003
AD Design Fair, Istanbul, Turkey
2002
AD Design Fair, Istanbul, Turkey