The Nonconformist Tropical Garden

The difficulty in categorizing Topaloglu’s work stems from her nonconformist ethos. While her studio is based in a city that geographically bridges East and West, she resists being defined by any specific local style. Instead, she draws inspiration from her own emotions and experiences, often exploring themes of play, passion, and love. Her fascination with these ideas is particularly evident in her experiments with glass, where she seeks to redefine its artistic and functional possibilities.

Thus, The Nonconformist Tropical Garden comes to life—a garden of glass that shifts between kaleidoscopic vibrancy and dreamlike serenity. It features lush, blooming forms: grass-like flowers, intricate shapes, and vivid colors that evoke everything from delicate candies to carnivorous plants. These tangible dreamscapes will be unveiled at Alcova Miami 2024, housed within one of the River Inn’s bedrooms. Expanding on the original concept from Milan Design Week, the installation grows beyond the bed, much like climbing vines, to envelop the entire room. It transforms everyday objects—the side table, hanger, toothbrush, soap dispenser, and breakfast nook—into elements of an indoor tropical oasis, where visitors can bask in its warming atmosphere. Through this setting, Topaloglu celebrates her deep connection to nature, plants, animals, and the essence of life itself, channeling a sense of flowing energy that unites all creatures. It is the skillful fusion of diverse materials that animates Topaloglu’s theatrical compositions. In her work, nature takes on new forms as glass blends with bronze and brass to create cabinets, coffee tables, and lamps. Each piece in the collection retains the dreamlike quality of the installation, while being adapted for domestic spaces.

“The Nonconformist Tropical Garden is an invitation to wander through the labyrinth of my imagination. Here, nature and color intertwine with my passion for fashion and jewelry, in a perennial exploration of the limitless possibilities of glass. Following an always instinctive approach, this material becomes my canvas for the unexpected” — states Sema Topaloglu.

Sema Topaloglu studied landscape architecture in Ankara, Turkey. Later moving to Belgium she widened her field of experience through various creative workshops and experiences at interior design studios and ateliers in Brussels. Returning to Turkey and establishing a base in the rich historical district Beyoglu in downtown Istanbul. She actively merged her design approach with the historical craft culture of the city. Through her high adrenaline personality and enthusiasm, she continusously demonstrates a passion for natural objects, spaces, and close relationship with material and craft. Sema Topaloglu Studio is known for the original designs of interiors, sculptures and furniture featuring Sema Topaloglu’s personal vocabulary of geometric patterns and shapes. The practices approach to design as a complete work of art, is in parts art installation, design interior and handcrafted environment.

Sema Topaloglu Studio is the interior design, design and architecture practice led by designer and architect Sema Topaloglu that produces contemporary interiors, architecture and furniture in Istanbul, Turkey. Have been recognized as a “Name to Watch” in the Wallpaper* Design Awards 2010. Sema Topaloglu Studio practice is known today f o r dedication to materials, craftsmanship and t h e unique aesthetic vision.