Issuu

DEFNE ZEYNEP ERGUN SELECTED WORKS 2021-2023

ARCHITECTURE & PEOPLE SPACES SHAPING

In architecture, people play a vital role as the driving force, imbuing it with soul and purpose. While technology enhances the design and construction processes, it’s the human touch that makes architecture meaningful. Human insight and empathy create responsive spaces. The interplay between human intellect, emotion, and innovation leads to architectural marvels that resonate deeply with individuals and communities. Architecture shapes experiences, and people infuse it with life and meaning. It offers shelter, inspiration, and a canvas for self-expression. Occupying and engaging with spaces, individuals breathe vitality and purpose into the built environment, forming a continuous feedback loop where architecture empowers people, and people imbue architecture with essence. Together, architecture and people co-create a world that enhances the human experience. This portfolio showcases projects exemplifying the profound impact of architecture on those who interact with it. It stands as a testament to the power of design decisions in positively influencing lives, work, and experiences, fostering meaningful connections between people and the built environment.

DEFNE ZEYNEP ERGUN

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA - CHAMPAIGN

2021-2023

2.C UL

ELLBEI NG

IDENTITY

D W

E+ EFUG SCALE +R

3.PRO SP E

L RA TU

10.

1. H E

S PR E S I O N EX THE OASIS SENIOR HOUSING

WANDERING THE AGORA SMALL LIBRARY PROJECT

STEEL SCAPES STEEL INNOVATION CENTER

Barcelona, Spain Spring 2023

Barcelona, Spain Fall 2022

St.Louis, MO , USA Fall 2023

5. A

OC I

23.

ARCHITECTURE ANNEX INTERVENTION

RICKER REPORT + TRAVEL SKETCHES

ROU N DI N GS

A TI O N Urbana, IL, USA

Fall 2021

N ON

ECT

I V ITY

Chicago, IL, USA Spring 2022

CONTACT: defneergun03@gmail.com

dergun2@illinois.edu

SUR

N A ND DISPLAY COMMERCIAL INFILL PROJECT

N DI NG P E OP

19.

UN TA RS DE

CTIO

REUSE AND

T E RA

I PT

14.

4.S

1.HEALTH AND WELLBEING ASPECT THE OASIS / SENIOR LIVING APARTMENTS

ARCH 372 (Instructor: Alejandro Lapunzina), Individual Residential Housing - Barcelona, Spain, Spring 2023

Located in a vibrant locale, the site is embraced by a diverse neighborhood, strategically positioned amidst community spaces. With the primary objective of furnishing a serene, convenient, and elevated environment, we meticulously crafted the complex as a confluence of individual units interconnected by well-planned circulation pathways. The pronounced prevalence of extensive free facades fosters harmonious engagement between the interior and exterior domains. Abundant sunlight, natural ventilation, and captivating vistas enhance well-being. This concept is manifest within each senior unit by centralizing the bathroom and strategically locating a wintergarden. The foremost aim is to ensure an all-encompassing, ecologically conscientious living environment for senior citizens. Sustainability takes precedence, achieved through a fully Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) structured building employing locally sourced and industrial materials from Poblenou. Furthermore, sustainability is further accentuated through enhanced accessibility, panoramic views, nurtured social interactions for bolstered mental well-being, and the creation of well-ventilated, illuminated spaces within the buildings.

IDEA OF VENTILATION AND VIEWS IN THE COMPLEX

IDEA OF VENTILATION AND VIEWS IN THE UNITS

The concept of arranging elements around a central focal point to enhance perspectives and optimize airflow within the complex is preserved within the individual unit by means of centralizing the bathroom and strategically situating a wintergarden.

2.8000

1.3000

3.0000

3.0000 3.0000

1.5000

2.4000

2.5000 4.3000

4.0000

1.7000

3.3000

FLOOR PLAN, SCALE 1:100 0m

PLAN OF THE SENIOR HOUSING

SECTION , SCALE 1:50 0m

PERSPECTIVE SECTION There is a relationship between the program and plan of the building and its building envelope. They are both designed to be familiar and simple, taking into account what senior citizens would prefer. The shutters and contiguous jolly wall demonstrate the continuity within the building’s functions, such as the winter garden connecting to either the bedroom, kitchen, or the living room. This arrangement showcases how different areas within the units can be expanded based on personal preference. The overall concept within the unit offers numerous choices due to its simplicity.

COLLAGE SHOWING THE MATERIALITY AND THE USE OF THE WINTER GARDEN

MATERIALS

2.8000 LATTICEWORK CERAMIC Guarantees ventilation and natural lighting. LATTICEWORK CERAMIC Guarantees ventilationALIMIand SLIDING TECHNAL natural lighting. NUM CARPENTRY MODEL LUMEAL XL SLIDING TECHNAL ALIMINUM CARPENTRY CORRUGABLE SHUTTERS MODEL LUMEAL XL IROKO WITH ADJUSTABLE

2.8000

3.0000

WOOD SLATS CORRUGABLE SHUTTERS WITH ADJUSTABLE IROKO WOOD SLATS

3.0000

CIRCULATION & ACCESSIBILITY

1.3000

The apartments were built with senior citizens in mind and are completely accessible. CIRCULATION & • The rooms and hallways are ADA compliant. ACCESSIBILITY • The kitchen and dining area, as well as the bedroom and bathroom, are linked to one another. The were built with in mindand and public are • apartments The unit has reached thesenior point citizens where privacy completely accessible. are divided, but they are also placed closely together once • The rooms hallways are ADA compliant. more withand accessibility in mind. • The kitchen and dining area, as well as the bedroom and bathroom, are linked to one another. • The unit has reached the point where privacy and public are divided, but they are also placed closely together once more with accessibility in mind.

MATERIALS

•

4.3000

Traditional elements of the building include shutters. This gives inhabitants a fun way to show off their distinctive personalities, shifts the sun's rays onto the terraces, MATERIALS improves the thermal comfort of the residences, and creates a dynamic play on the building's façade. • • Traditional elements of the building include shutters. This The industrial nature of Poblenou is demonstrated by the gives inhabitants a funand waywood to show usage of a ceramic mix.off their distinctive personalities, shifts the sun's rays onto the terraces, improves the thermal comfort of the residences, and creates a dynamic play on the building's façade. • The industrial nature of Poblenou is demonstrated by the usage of a ceramic and wood mix.

PINE PLANKS (EXTERIOR FINISHING)

1.7000 PINE PLANKS (EXTECLT WALL RIOR FINISHING)

1.7000 CLT WALL

VIEWS Throughout, vievs are achieved. • Windows can be used in the functional spaces for both ventilation and lighting. The winter garden connects the living room and bedroom by bringing light into each space. VIEWS • Through the ceramic tiles and shutters, the views are amusThroughout, vievs are achieved. ing. • • Windows cangarden be usedalso in the functional spaces for both venThe winter acts as a buffer zone,. tilation and lighting. The winter garden connects the living room and bedroom by bringing light into each space. • Through the ceramic tiles and shutters, the views are amusing. • The winter garden also acts as a buffer zone,. UNIT FLOOR PLAN, SCALE 1:50

UNIT FLOOR PLAN, SCALE 1:50 0m

N 7m N

encouraging a connection to nature by employing winter gardens to blur the lines between the interior and exterior.

SOCIAL ASPECTS The winter garden is left up to the user to decide how to use it, but it was designed as a social idea. • It has the potential to be a place of living, an extension of the living room, a dining area for senior citizens to socialize in, or a gardening area that has been shown to improve senior citizens' physical and mental health. • Rooms that are cozy and welcoming are created while also encouraging a connection to nature by employing winter gardens to blur the lines between the interior and exterior.

NATURAL VENTILATION There are various internal components that contribute to the unit's natural ventilation. • Winter gardens are strategically placed to serve as a natural ventilation source in units, allowing the summer winds from the south to pass through. • More windows have been added, which will help to distribute this wind inside the apartment. • Additionally, latticed windows are strategically positioned in areas that require ventilation, Winter Garden Purpose: GARDENING such as the kitchen.

NATURAL VENTILATION

Win

• Additionally, latticed windows are strategically positioned in areas that require ventilation, such as the kitchen.

LOA AIR S HAN LIGH BUIL DRY 5 LA PINE INSU 5 LA LAM

ILLUMINATION

There are various internal components that contribute to the unit's natural ventilation. • Winter gardens are strategically placed to serve as a natural ventilation source in units, allowing the summer winds from the south to pass through. • More windows have been added, which will help to distribute this wind inside the apartment. Winter Garden Purpose: GARDENING • Additionally, latticed windows are strategically positioned in areas that require ventilation, such as the kitchen.

The winter garden and the centrally located bathroom help to illuminate rooms with purpose within the perimeter of the structure, allowing the possibility of windows and light in every room. • Residents can enjoy natural light, fresh air, and views of the outdoors in winter gardens, which can improve their mental health and general well-being.

PINE

SOU

CAR CLT 2 LA

UNIT SECTION , SCALE 1:50 0cm 20 cm 60 cm Winter Garden Purpose: DINING/ SOCIALIZING

120 cm

Winte

CLT CONN PLATE

ILLUMINATION The winter garden and the centrally located bathroom help to illuminate rooms with purpose within the perimeter of the structure, allowing the possibility of windows and light in every room. • Residents can enjoy natural light, fresh air, and views of the outdoors in winter gardens, which can improve their mental health and general well-being.

Winter Garden Purpose: DINING/ SOCIALIZING

LOAD TRANSFER BRACKET AIR SPACE - 60cm HANGER WIRE LIGHT FIXTURE AND MECHANICAL ELEMENTS BUILDING BLANKET- 12cm DRY WALL- 6cm 5 LAYER CLT - 20cm PINE PLANKS - 10cm INSULATION - 10cm 5 LAYER CLT - 20cm LAMINATED WOOD+ DRY SCREED ELEMENTS- 35mm PINE PLANKS+ DRY SCREED ELEMENTS- 35mm SOUND INSULATION ELEMENTS- 20mm CARDBOARD & SAND LAYER - 60mm CLT 5 LAYER- 150mm 2 LAYER GYPSUM BOARD- 26mm Winter Garden Purpose: EXTENDED LIVING

UNIT SECTION , SCALE 1:50 0cm

20 cm

60 cm

ILLUMINATION

120 cm

CLT CONNECTIONS- COLUMN & FLOOR PLATE & WALL AND FLOOR PLATE

Knife Plate

Threaded Rod Through Bolts

Winter Garden Purpose: EXTENDED LIVING

Winter Garden Purpose: DINING/ SOCIALIZING

Bearing Surface Threaded Rod Connections

CLT Wall

Self-tapping screws

N Winter Garden Purpose: EXTENDED LIVING

CLT Wall

2.CULTURAL IDENTITY

AND EXPRESSION

WANDERING THE AGORA / PUBLIC LIBRARY

ARCH 371(Instructor: Carles Marcos), Team Library - Barcelona, Spain, Fall 2022 Fall 2022 Earl Prize 1st place Winner

(Sabrina Liang)

The chapter explores architecture’s role in creating spaces that unite people and encourage social interaction. Architecture also preserves cultural identity, reflecting local traditions and values. Landmarks and urban spaces become symbols defining cities and fostering pride. An example to this is the “Wandering the Agora” project. Rooted in Gracia’s history, the city’s layout intricately weaves squares, streets, and plazas, fostering intergenerational convergence. These spaces evoke the charm of traditional courtyards, infusing urban life with a dynamic blend of nature and humanity. Amid modern shifts, the project preserves these squares, sustaining a vibrant atmosphere that resonates with the community’s innate affinity for nature.The newly erected library stands as a tribute to community ideals while offering an inclusive embrace. Thoughtful arrangement of bookshelves defines the primary circulation along the building’s edges, respecting its underlying structure. Concurrently, the circulation envelops a capacious central zone, adaptable for communal assemblies that touches to Gracia’s essence. Sustainability takes root through the utilization of locally-sourced cork—an eco-conscious material celebrated for insulation and environmental compatibility, perfectly harmonizing with the library’s ethos.

INDIVIDUAL:(Interior rendering, Exterior Collage, Perspective Section) TEAM:(Plans, Building Section)

PARTI DIAGRAM PUBLIC PRIVATE

Circulating around a central core has historically been a recurring theme, not limited to the Spanish way of life but emblematic of fundamental aspects of human behavior. This design aims to convey this concept comprehensively. Ultimately, it seeks to be more than just a library, instead serving as a pivotal gathering place within the Gracia neighborhood, fostering community unity. The overarching concept guiding this architectural project emphasizes simplicity and clarity in its execution. Every architectural element, from intricately detailed floor plans to the purposeful arrangement of columns within the structure, collectively contributes to an atmosphere characterized by both openness and an inherent force that propels people to move around the central core.

15.3m

7.2m

2.5m

2.0m

1.6m

2.0m

2.7m

2.7m 15m

7.5m

1.3m

18m

2.5m

5.8m

FIRST LEVEL & SITE FLOOR PLAN N 0m 1m

Scale: 1:100

SECOND LEVEL FLOOR PLAN

BASEMENT LEVEL FLOOR PLAN

N 0m

0m 1m

Scale: 1:100

THIRD LEVEL FLOOR PLAN N 0m 1m

FIFTH LEVEL FLOOR PLAN N

Scale: 1:100

0m 1m

Scale: 1:100

COLLAGE The library’s essential character is subtly emphasized by incorporating bookshelves as integral components of this unique structural design. This deliberate inclusion not only provides individuals with a platform to showcase their cultural interests but also empowers them to freely express their unique identities.

CORK BLOCK: t50 FURRING STRIPS: t18 INSULATION: t100 WOOD FIBER: t20

GIRDER W27x129 SQUARE TIMBER 105x105 SQUARE TIMBER 100x75 PIECE ANGLE: 75x75, 16 SQUARE TIMBER 105x56

COLUMN W6x25

TRIPLE GLASS: t42 COLUMN W14x730

CORK TILE: t50 CONCRETE STEEL SHEAT: 1.6

GIRDER W27x129

BUILDING SECTION 0m 0.2m

0.6m

1.2m

Scale: 1:20

BUILDING SECTION

WOODEN STAIR

PERSPECTIVE SECTION 9

3. PROSPECT + REFUGE + SCALE STEEL-SCAPES / FABRICATION + INNOVATION CENTER

ARCH 473 (Instructor: Randy Deutsch), Individual Steel Innovation Center - St. Louis, MO, USA, Fall 2023 Fall 2023 Earl Prize Nominee Our ancestors, in crafting their habitats, inherently understood the harmonious dance between built environments and the organic landscape. Theoretical explorations, therefore, become a reflection of this innate yearning, a poignant reminder that, despite technological strides, we carry within us an enduring connection to the natural realm. This theoretical lens, poised on the importance of human scale within monumental architectural endeavors, captures the essence of our lived experiences. The crux lies in recognizing that every architectural masterpiece should not only awe with its scale but also resonate intimately with those who inhabit its spaces. “Steel Scapes” harmonizes sustainable steel structures and transparent buffer zones, challenging the conventional separation between organic and inorganic realms. The project’s essence lies in its ability to balance diverse functions while introducing a “steel forest,” where the tactile meets the industrial. At its philosophical core, the project emphasizes the significance of the human scale in expansive undertakings, ensuring a profound connection within the grandeur. “Steel Scapes” transcends mere physicality; it embodies a philosophical exploration, inviting individuals to navigate its steel forest, intertwining contemporary experiences with an enduring connection to our roots.

FLOOR PLANS

PARTI / CONCEPT- PHYSICAL MODEL SHOWING THE CONCEPT

Prospect & refuge in architecture refers to the intentional design and incorporation of spaces that offer a sense of comfort, safety, and retreat, often inviting individuals to engage with the environment from a sheltered or contemplative vantage point. It emphasizes creating areas within structures where people can find solace, fostering a harmonious relationship between the built environment and human well-being.

E-W TRANSVERSAL PERSPECTIVE SECTION

ELEVATIONS

3D MODEL AND STRUCTURAL DIAGRAM

VIEW OF OPEN BAY

SECTION 12

S-E WALL SECTION AND PARTIAL ELEVATION This theoretical lens, poised on the importance of human scale within monumental architectural endeavors, captures the essence of our lived experiences. Regardless of the colossal proportions, an architectural marvel should maintain a profound connection with the individuals who navigate its corridors. Within the project’s structures, the essence of human scale is preserved. The visionary concept of a “tree-house” is maintained as individuals move through cantilevered pieces, treelike columns, and steel tubes. This concept resonates with Steel-Scapes, where steel surrounds yet also embraces a natural, childlike prospective refuge perspective of humanity.

EXTERIOR VIEW FROM RIVER 13

4.SOCIAL INTERACTION AND CONNECTIVITY DISPLAY / COMMERCIAL INFILL PROJECT ARCH 274 (Instructor: Andrea Melgarejo de Berry & Dr. Yun Kyu Yi), Individual Office + Restaurant - Chicago, IL, USA, Spring 2022

Architecture serves as the silent orchestrator of social interaction and connectivity, shaping the way individuals come together, engage, and build communities. From the deliberate design of communal spaces to the integration of modern technology, architecture influences the dynamics of human interaction. It provides the physical backdrop for cultural exchange in museums and theaters, the impromptu connections in open plazas, and the sense of belonging in historical landmarks. The Display project embodies a sophisticated approach to social interaction and connectivity within its architectural design. By seamlessly integrating the concept of “display” into its structure, the building acts as a catalyst for fostering community engagement and connectivity along 918 W Randolph Street. Its strategically positioned void spaces, including the networking hub and collaborative areas, serve as vibrant social nodes where individuals can convene, interact, and exchange ideas. The museum-like displays, showcasing the street’s rich history, honor the neighborhood’s heritage. Moreover, the louvered facade not only optimizes natural light but also symbolizes the building’s openness to public-private interaction, reinforcing its role as a hub for social connectivity. In this way, Display transcends the conventional boundaries of commercial architecture by actively promoting social cohesion and fostering meaningful connections among its occupants and the surrounding community.

row, restaurant row, networking hub, and a collaborative space; and almost museum-like displays the street’s history in those areas.

Beg

HISTORY ANALYSIS

1850 RANDOLPH- FULTON MARKET

W RANDOLPH STREET

Pull 1908

COMMISSION ROW

SOLAR & GREENERY ANALYSIS

200’

400’

800’

1600’

First Floor

0’

1991

RESTAURANT ROW

2017 SOHO HOUSE AND CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

N 0’

200’

400’

800’

BUILDING SITE

1600’

GREENERY

MARKET SITE

COMMISSION HOUSES

RESTAURANTS

SOHO HOUSE

CONCEPT DESIGN CONSIDERING THE CULTURAL HISTORY AND SOLAR ANALYSIS

INTERIOR RENDERINGS OF THE OFFICE 16

The louvered facade not only maximizes natural light but also symbolizes the building’s openness to public-private interaction, solidifying its role as a social hub. Display transcends typical commercial architecture by actively promoting social cohesion and fostering meaningful connections among occupants and the community. The strategically placed louvers serve dual purposes: improving daylighting in the infill site and creating an intriguing frame for the functions and street showcased by the building, making them the primary source of interaction and connectivity.

3D STRUCTURE DIAGRAM

EXTERIOR RENDERING

SECTION SHOWING HOW DIFFERENT PROGRAMS ALIGN 18

5. ADAPTIVE REUSE AND REGENERATION ARCHITECTURE ANNEX GALLERY / BUILDING INTERVENTION

ARCH 231 (Instructor: Randy Deutsch), Individual Gallery - Urbana, IL, USA, Fall 2021

Architecture plays a pivotal role in adaptive reuse and regeneration by revitalizing existing structures and spaces to meet contemporary needs while preserving their historical or cultural significance. Rather than demolishing old buildings, architects reimagine and repurpose them, often breathing new life into neglected or underutilized areas. This sustainable approach not only conserves resources but also contributes to the preservation of architectural heritage. Adaptive reuse and regeneration showcase architecture’s capacity to reinvigorate neighborhoods, and provide functional, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally responsible solutions for the built environment’s evolving requirements. This Annex gallery beautifully exemplifies the principles of adaptive reuse and regeneration. By retaining the original character of the Annex, while simultaneously enhancing its functionality and creativity, it transforms a once underutilized space into a vibrant hub of artistic and educational activity. The reconstruction of the third floor and roof structure modernizes the building while paying homage to its historical roots, ensuring a seamless blend of old and new.

NORTH EAST CORNER

NORTH WEST CORNER

SITE STUDY

Already existing annex basement, first floor and second floor.

3 3

3rd floor, the intervention’s layout can be seen along with the exterior walls, and woven facade elements.

FLOOR PLAN OF THE REGENERATED 3RD FLOOR

A saltbox roof is added, along with individual “dormer window inspired” roof pieces with their truss structure. The interior of the roof is also shown with the Glulam Southern Pine beams.

7 77 7 77

The introduction of a gallery space and a grab-and-go area not only breathes new life into the building but also opens doors for students to showcase their work and artists to contribute to the architecture students’ education. The clever use of natural light, skylight windows, and strategically placed glass panels creates an atmosphere that fosters artistic expression and innovation. This project, through adaptive reuse and thoughtful regeneration, not only preserves the heritage of the Annex but also revitalizes it as a dynamic center for artistic exploration and learning.

4 44 4

ELEVATIONS

EXTERIOR RENDER OF HOW THE NEW BUILDING WOULD LOOK

6 6

6 66 6

WATERCOLOR COLLAGE SHOWING THE VIEWS ONE MIGHT HAVE LOOKING THROUGH THE GALLERY

UNDERSTANDING PEOPLE & SURROUNDINGS 1) RICKER REPORT Editor in two publications, Fall 2020- Spring 2021 Publications (Structure & Perception), Champaign & Urbana, IL, USA, Fall 2021

Being actively involved in the Ricker Report, an independent architecture publication, has significantly enhanced my understanding of people and their surroundings within the realm of architecture. From its inception as the Ricker Notes in 1953, Ricker has consistently emphasized the importance of comprehending the social, political, and economic contexts in which architectural design and construction occur. Architecture, as a discipline, begins with the fundamental need to understand people and their environments. This involvement has allowed me to delve into critical explorations of perception and structure in the two publications I was involved in, revealing that our experiences and the way we perceive the world shape our built environments, and, in turn, our built environments influence our experiences. In an ever-changing world, where challenges and opportunities are intertwined, the Ricker Report has instilled in me the belief that architecture plays a vital role in addressing societal issues, such as the impact of technology, the rewriting of histories, and the pursuit of justice. Through this platform, I have come to realize that architecture is not just about designing buildings; it’s about designing for people, their diverse perspectives, and their evolving needs. Thus, my engagement with the Ricker Report has reinforced the idea that understanding people and their surroundings is not just a prerequisite but a constant pursuit at the heart of meaningful architectural practice.

Contribution: Editor of “Power Structures, Equity and Community” by Lynne Dearborn and AnnaMarie Bliss (In Structure volume) Editor of “Demetrification, NFTs, and MORE” by Ben Grosser (In Perception volume)

COLLAGE OF THE COVER OF “STRUCTURE” VOLUME (THE COURTESY OF THE COVER ITSELF BELONGS TO RICKER REPORT GRAPHIC DESIGN TEAM)

“STRUCTURE”

“Power Structures, Equity and Community” by Lynne Dearborn and AnnaMarie Bliss In a world where skylines and structures are increasingly shaped by technology, architects must adapt and utilize these tools to ensure that their designs respond to the evolving needs and perceptions of society. The emphasis on community-based work and effective communication with the general public is also crucial. As architects engage with social media platforms and employ inclusive language and imagery, they bridge the divide between their profession and the broader public, fostering a more informed and engaged dialogue about the built environment. In essence, the “Structure” volume serves as a testament to how understanding people and their surroundings remains a central tenet of architectural practice, guiding architects like Lynne Dearborn and AnnaMarie Bliss in their pursuit of creating architecture that is not only functional but also deeply human-centered.

“PERCEPTION” “Demetrification, NFTs, and MORE” by Ben Grosser Grosser’s discussions on the relationship between humans and machines and the power dynamics in software design echo the importance of user-centric design principles in architecture. Understanding how technology can control and manipulate users emphasizes the ethical responsibility of architects in creating environments that prioritize user well-being, accessibility, and autonomy. Architecture is more than just the physical construction of buildings; it underscores the need for a holistic understanding of people, their interactions, and the socio-technological context. By drawing insights from the cultural, social, and political aspects of software explored, architects can better grasp the intricate dynamics of human behavior and the built environment, ultimately leading to more thoughtful and responsive architectural design.

COLLAGE OF THE PERCEPTION VOLUME 24

COLLAGE OF SELECTED TRAVEL SKETCHES

UNDERSTANDING PEOPLE & SURROUNDINGS 2) TRAVEL SKETCHES Throughout my travels, I diligently maintained a series of travel journals, which I consider to be my windows into the diverse tapestry of lives and cultures spanning the globe. Each journal served as a distinct “frame”, allowing me to peer into the intricate fusion of architecture and humanity unique to each place I visited. These frames not only enriched my understanding of architectural diversity but also offered profound insights into the kaleidoscope of people, their stories, and the boundless inspirations they bring to the built environment. Navigating through centuries of architectural evolution, I realized that the designs of the past hold invaluable lessons for the architectural innovations of tomorrow. Furthermore, recognizing the importance of understanding people and their surroundings as central to the architectural process, these experiences reinforced that, in shaping spaces, the harmonious interplay between history, human needs, and environmental context is paramount. Our creative future is deeply rooted in the wisdom of our architectural past, coupled with a profound understanding of people and their surroundings.

The more foreign things are for you, the more your attitude, the way you ask questions or try to reach a symbiosis, a catalyst, an ‘awareness’ of the issue raised, which your interloctors haven’t got a clue about, spurs you on till you get solutions. -Jean Nouvel (from El Croquis, no: 183)

DEFNE ZEYNEP ERGUN