Kastamonu Örencik Social Housing Project | 2021

Neighborhood – Urban Context – Human Interaction
The term “mahalle,” rooted in Arabic, represents not just a geographical space but a sociological foundation of communal life. A well-functioning neighborhood fosters human interaction, shared memory, and strong interpersonal bonds, offering essential facilities like residential units, commercial spaces, schools, healthcare, religious venues, and social amenities. However, modern urban planning often neglects communal spaces, weakening social cohesion. The erosion of collective living, particularly in large cities, is evident as public spaces become diluted.

Geographical and Climatic Context
Kastamonu, situated in Turkey’s northeastern Black Sea region, features rugged terrain, rising sharply inland and reaching elevations of 2500-3000 meters in the south. Its cool, rainy climate supports both tea and Mediterranean crops, but the region’s topography isolates neighborhoods from one another, presenting unique urban design challenges.

Traditional Architecture – The “Serender”
The “Serender,” an elevated wooden structure, is indigenous to the Black Sea region. Used for storage or kitchens, it minimizes ground contact to preserve food and reduce environmental impact. This structure exemplifies the region’s adaptability to challenging terrain. A similar stone version exists in Northern Spain.

“Macro-Serender” Concept
Building upon the ecological success of the traditional “Serender,” the design introduces a collective urban fabric, combining two such units. The neighborhood adapts to the natural slope, with platforms arranged to separate private and public spaces. Upper residential platforms ensure privacy, while lower commercial and social spaces promote interaction. Vertical connections allow for openness between levels, enhancing connectivity. This flexible design prevents overcrowding while fostering social and economic vitality.

Traditional Building Techniques
Kastamonu’s traditional homes are built on steep slopes using wood and stone. The neighborhood design employs these materials, with wooden frames to create spatial divisions. The base accommodates commercial functions, while upper levels house residential areas. The modular design ensures sustainability and flexibility.

Permaculture Integration
Permaculture principles are integrated into the design, fostering a sustainable relationship between residents and the environment. In this system, residents cultivate crops on upper platforms, selling them in lower commercial spaces. This cycle promotes ecological balance, enriches social interactions, and supports economic activity.

Site-Specific Environmental Data
Located between the villages of Örencik and Budamış, 5 km south of Kastamonu’s city center, the competition site is easily accessible, positioned near key roads and Kastamonu Airport. Surrounded by lush greenery and close to the Uzunyazı recreational area, the site offers a serene environment with strong agricultural and livestock-based economic foundations. This low-density context presents opportunities for sustainable urban development.

Category:Social HousingLocation:Örencik, Kastamonu, TürkiyeArchitect: Doğan Türkkan, TurkiyeDesign Team: Doğan Türkkan, Hande Gül Türkkan3D Render:Doğan Türkkan| NODE Studio