DIFFERENT LAYERS OF A CULTURE: EMPOWERING TRADTIONAL TURKISH VILLAGE LIFE THROUGH ARCHITECTURE

Abstract

Can an architectural intervention provide positive and sustainable cultural, economic and environmental developments for a Turkish village? The architectural formation of a cultural center that fortifies cultural traditions and creates bridges between locals and visitors, diminishes the negative effects of migration and brings economic dynamism to the area is the aim of this thesis project.

Migration from villages to big cities is a common occurrence in Turkey. However, due to constantly increasing population and limitation of the resources in major cities, most of the time, people who migrate from villages with the desire to find better living conditions cannot fulfill their dreams.

On the other hand, there are many qualities and aspects of villages such as agricultural production, unique arts and crafts and folkloric/traditional values. With proper coordination, these qualities may easily become economic, social and cultural drives. Therefore, a program that strengthens these values and makes them viable economic and cultural resources for village populations, may contribute to the development of villages and small-scale neighborhoods.