Izmir University of Economics Campus
Izmir University of Economics (IUE) is committed to its vision of becoming a distinguished institution of higher education that leads society through quality education and universal-level scientific research. Its mission is to nurture innovative and qualified individuals equipped with leadership skills, entrepreneurial thinking, critical inquiry, and a commitment to continuous learning. The university aims to contribute to scientific advancement through original research.
In designing the Güzelbahçe Campus, IUE aimed to create a vibrant social environment beyond its functional educational, social, sports, and cultural facilities. Emphasizing a high quality of life on campus, every aspect of the land’s potential was evaluated, with a primary focus on designing communal living spaces essential to campus life. The campus is envisioned not just as a university asset but as an integral part of the city, offering public spaces of exceptional quality accessible to the broader community at various times.
Consequently, academic, cultural, and recreational spaces strategically placed throughout the campus create focal points along streets and pathways, forming the foundation of its urban design. Ground-level spaces within buildings are partially open, fostering connections with open and semi-open environments. This deliberate approach ensures the creation of continuous shaded areas and social hubs, despite the intensive programmatic demands of the campus.
Core Values
Education exists within a complex web of socio-economic, political, and cultural systems, impacting and being influenced by them. Modern educational structures must be adaptable to evolving needs and developments within these systems. Architectural flexibility in educational buildings is crucial, enabling teachers and students to respond to changing conditions and educational methodologies.
Educational spaces should encourage personal development and learning by offering flexibility and functionality. For instance, large classrooms should be adaptable, transforming into smaller meeting rooms or discussion spaces as needed. Such flexibility not only supports educational methodologies but also enhances the emotional engagement of students, thereby enriching the learning experience.
Flexibility in campus design ensures the ability to adapt to future changes, expand as needed, and effectively fulfill evolving societal demands. The integration of academic, social, and physical planning is essential, as decisions in one area impact outcomes in others. An integrated and compact campus design, as opposed to a scattered layout, fosters stronger academic and social connections among students, faculty, and staff.
Project Name
Izmir University of Economics Campus
Awards
Honorable Mention, International Competition
Services
architecture, landscape, urban design
Typology
education, urban design
Location
Izmir, Turkey
Year
2022
Status
conceptual design
Size
112.000 m²
Client
Izmir Chamber of Commerce Education and Health Foundation
Design Team
Sıddık Güvendi, Cihan Sevindik, Ekin Balas, Emirhan Ayata, Medine Gümüş, Şevval Şekerci, İsmail Gökkaya, Tetiana Markova
Collaborators
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Photography
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