Social Gathering Space at Büyükada

Büyükada, formerly a secluded sanctuary, is now an essential part of Istanbul, thanks to recent technological advancements. This project strives to capture the present socio-cultural vibe of Büyükada, closely intertwined with Istanbul. It creates a vibrant atmosphere, particularly in the summer when the population surges, marking a departure from its hidden paradise persona. The guiding principle of inclusivity in the project stands out, particularly for its flexible structure in the socio-cultural domain. Dubbed "Expression Nexus," this conceptual space focuses on providing a platform for individuals to express themselves through various art forms without the need for prior knowledge or experience.

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This unique space fosters spontaneous engagement, allowing anyone to participate and showcase their artistic expressions at any given moment. Expression Nexus, where different art forms interact inclusively, comes to life step by step, celebrating the rich history and diversity of Büyükada. The design concept, situated on the sloped side facing Sakızadası, harmonizes with the island's identity through its design language, construction techniques, materials, and scale. The experiment with the extension of roofs to the ground explores how traditional construction techniques can flexibly yield various modern aesthetics. Furthermore, the roofs extending to the ground within the sloped terrain harmonize with the topography, finding their place within nature.