Istanbul design studio Teğet designs the Çatalhöyük visitor center located on a Neolithic archaeological site nestled in central Turkey. The Çatalhöyük space is defined by the three wooden buildings that purposefully surround a courtyard. This design project is commissioned by the local municipality and it is placed in one of the world's oldest known settlements.
Teğet speaks to Dezeen, "Our articulation strategy was based on the existing or pre-existing elements on-site. We don't define Çatalhöyük Visitor Center as a museum or an exhibition building, but as a spine that organises the experience and movement of visitors in relation to the existing elements on site. [...] The central courtyard is the core of the project as it is the encounter area of all three programs."
Image Credit: Egemen Karakaya
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Adaptive Reuse Architecture
- Istanbul design studio Teğet's project demonstrates how modern design can be integrated into historical sites, creating a symbiotic relationship between past and present.
- Contextual Design Strategies
- The Çatalhöyük Visitor Center emphasizes the importance of aligning new constructions with the existing or pre-existing elements, enhancing visitor experience through strategic organization.
- Heritage Tourism Innovation
- By not defining the Çatalhöyük Visitor Center strictly as a museum or exhibition space, the design allows for a more immersive and flexible visitor experience centered around historical authenticity.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Architecture
- The project showcases innovative architectural solutions that respect and incorporate archaeological and historical contexts.
- Tourism
- Heritage sites like Çatalhöyük can attract more visitors by offering unique, context-rich experiences through thoughtful design.
- Cultural Heritage Management
- Projects that blend modern design with historical preservation offer new ways to manage and present ancient sites to the public.
