OT began in 2013 as a humour and literature magazine, whose first motto, "Maksat Yeşillik Olsun", was spoken by the cow in its original logo. That same year the magazine opened a small table in Galata where writers, illustrators and readers would drop by for tea and conversation. In 2014, OT Grup turned that conversation into a franchise café brand, and the studio created both its first concept and its spatial identity, translating the magazine's layered, witty and warm voice into architecture. The OT Kafe concept received a Highly Commended distinction at the European Property Awards 2015-2016. Since then the studio has designed 28 OT venues across Turkey, including new openings, relocations and renewals; the brand operates 14 branches in 11 cities today.
A familiar identity, reborn
OT Kafe Çanakkale is the latest interpretation of that identity. Familiar codes from earlier branches return in a new form: black flooring crossed by yellow diagonal lines and iconic round wall lights greet regular guests, while new materials and details raise the space to contemporary expectations.
The curtain and the stage
At the centre of the story is a curtain. OT appears between two drapes as if on a stage, a gesture that refers to the brand's rebirth and links the magazine's past to its present. The curtain motif repeats from different angles throughout the interior, giving the space both visual continuity and a sense of drama.
A place for conversation
The café is built around the magazine's motto "Maksat Muhabbet Olsun" – it's all about good conversation. Designed for both local residents and OT's long-standing readers, it responds to Çanakkale's own social fabric, with a generous terrace that more than doubles the café in the warmer months.
Designed and built in parallel
The project was delivered as a full turnkey commission: CO Mimarlık was responsible for both design and construction, with its own site team. Construction began while the design was still being developed, so the 40-day design process and the 110-day construction period ran in parallel, from first sketch to opening day.
Area: 587 m² (271 m² indoor, 316 m² outdoor)
Capacity: 326 seats
Completed: 2026
More about the project: OT Kafe Çanakkale – CO Mimarlık
