Caretta Caretta Rehabilitation Center

Iztuzu Beach, nestled in the Mediterranean, spans 4.5 km of pristine beauty, adorned with golden sands and surrounded by pine forests and river deltas. It serves as a critical habitat for loggerhead sea turtles and shelters rare species like the Nile Softshell Turtle. The Dalyan Österini and its channels, adorned with extensive reed beds, are integral parts of this ecosystem, hosting turtle research and rehabilitation centers such as DEKAMER.

The architectural design of the Sea Turtle Care Station is meticulously crafted to blend with its natural surroundings. Oriented along the east-west axis, the structure minimizes its footprint, integrating seamlessly into the existing natural texture. Architectural spaces and landscaping delineate clear boundaries between the beach area and the parking lot, enhancing visitor experience and environmental awareness.

The facility’s layout is tailored to cater to the needs of turtles under care, with museum, exhibition, and multi-purpose halls situated to the north, and treatment units and volunteer areas to the south. This arrangement creates a harmonious blend of open, semi-open, and enclosed spaces on a human scale, respecting the area’s natural structure. North-facing facades prioritize closed spaces to minimize disturbance to turtles.

The building’s walls fulfill functional needs by consolidating components along the east-west axis, supporting ventilation, heating, and cooling systems. Eaves not only provide shelter but also maximize daylight utilization, harvest rainwater, harness solar energy, and facilitate natural ventilation. This dynamic and sustainable architectural approach ensures the structure harmonizes with its natural environment.

Located with minimal disruption to nature, the Iztuzu Beach Sea Turtle Care Station preserves local plant and tree species by elevating its footprint. This approach exemplifies sustainable environmental stewardship, embodying a commitment to integrating architecture with nature seamlessly.