In the village of Urla, İzmir, Turkey, nestled amidst olive groves and the Aegean coastline, stands a remarkable family home known as Urla House. Designed by Studio Irmak Turanli, this dwelling is a modern reflection of Aegean architectural traditions, carefully crafted to resonate with its climatic, agricultural, and historical setting. The design philosophy of Urla House is deeply rooted in local conditions, influencing everything from material selection to spatial arrangement and environmental strategies, creating a living space that is both functional and culturally rich.
A core principle guiding the development of Urla House was sustainability, evident in the choice of locally sourced and climate-responsive materials. The construction primarily features limestone, wood, lime plaster, and hemp, with stone materials procured from within a 150-kilometer radius and expertly installed by regional artisans. The design adeptly addresses Urla's specific climate—hot, arid summers and mild, blustery winters—through its orientation and spatial layout. An existing ground-floor structure was ingeniously integrated, now serving as a bedroom with direct access to a terrace. This terrace, along with its generously proportioned roof overhang, offers essential shade from the intense sun and shelter from prevailing winds, making outdoor living enjoyable throughout the day. Furthermore, local craftsmanship was integral to the construction, with a boat-building carpenter creating lightweight timber elements for built-in furniture, and on-site excavated soil, clay, and sand used for rammed-earth benches and table bases. Large terrace planters, developed in collaboration with a local pottery studio, further enhance the connection to the region, their clay tones harmonizing with the lime-washed facade.
The interior layout of Urla House, meticulously planned by Studio Irmak Turanli, is designed to support a communal lifestyle. The ground floor serves as an expansive shared living area, featuring an open kitchen and living space that seamlessly extends to the terrace. A long kitchen island functions as both a food preparation and dining area, fostering collective activities typical of Mediterranean domestic culture and negating the need for a separate formal dining room. The upper level is dedicated to private bedrooms, each strategically positioned to maximize natural light and offer captivating views of the surrounding hills. These bedrooms also provide direct access to secluded terraces, offering residents private outdoor retreats. The external environment of Urla House is also thoughtfully integrated; mature olive trees were preserved to maintain the site's natural character, and a carefully placed pool reflects light onto the terrace arches and ceilings. From the pool, the panoramic views of the sea create an optical illusion, extending the water's surface beyond the property boundaries and forging an undeniable connection between the architectural design and its breathtaking natural landscape.
Urla House stands as a testament to thoughtful design, demonstrating how architecture can respect and enhance its environment. It embodies a philosophy where local heritage and modern living coalesce, creating not just a structure, but a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem that encourages a life of harmony, community, and respect for nature's enduring beauty.