Social Housing K

Location
For the 7 Climate 7 Region 7 Neighborhood National Architectural and Urban Design Idea Competition, Kastamonu in the Black Sea Region was selected as the project site. The area is situated approximately 5 km south of the city center. To the west of the site is the Çankırı-Kastamonu Road, and to the east is the Kastamonu Eastern Ring Road, which also serves as the eastern boundary of the competition land. Wooded areas are located to the west and north, a ring road intersection lies to the south, and Kastamonu Airport is 2 km to the southwest.

Location Context
Kastamonu, located in the Central Black Sea region, is characterized by a dense forest texture and predominantly experiences the Black Sea climate. The historical settlement is situated in the southern part of the urban fabric, while the new city has been expanding southward with a predominantly northern orientation over time. Agricultural lands are found to the north of the city.

The topography plays a significant role in shaping the urban settlement of Kastamonu city center. The rugged terrain surrounding the historical city center from the east and west has caused the city to expand capillary-like towards the north over time.

Traditional Texture
Kastamonu’s historical city center features distinct traditional elements. Similar to other old Turkish cities, the settlement centers around a mosque and arasta (marketplace), with urban morphology radiating from this nucleus. The use of wood and stone is prevalent in the traditional building texture. Another notable feature of traditional buildings is the use of semi-public spaces called “gizzards.” These areas, outside the private spaces of homes, serve as outward-oriented green areas and play an important role in the daily life of the region’s residents.

Contextual Approach
The basis of the contextual approach is the reinterpretation of the building culture that defines the geographical identity of the design area, which has been interrupted over time.

Location Planning
The settlement planning of the design area draws on historical references. The urban life plateau, which determines the main architectural form, extends along the land towards the arasta, integrating with the mosque and the square. This urban living plateau is sustained by a continuous pedestrian promenade and supported by various public functions, making it a vibrant part of the city that functions 24/7.

Formation
An analysis of the traditional housing typology in the region reveals a predominance of wood-based building typologies on stone bases. These low-rise and sloping structures are designed to ensure unobstructed views and make the most of the land’s potentials. The architectural design seeks to create a calm, land-sensitive form that is simple and harmonious with the existing building texture.

Program
The program aims to create a socially sustainable living environment where historical references are integrated into contemporary life. This is achieved by supporting the urban life plateau, which shapes urban and neighborhood life, with social and cultural units at different levels.