Thesis Defense – Fırat Ali Fırat (MSARCH)

Fırat Ali Fırat – M.Sc. in Architecture

Prof. Dr. Alper Ünlü – Advisor

Date: 24.05.2023

Time: 14.00-15:30

Location: AB4 315

CUKUROVA'S FARM BUILDINGS: A SYNTACTIC ANALYSIS OF HISTORICAL EVOLUTION AND CONTEMPORARY ADAPTATION

Prof. Dr. Alper Ünlü, Özyeğin University

Dr. Kaan Özgün, Özyeğin University

Prof. Dr. Ervin Garip, İstanbul Technical University

Abstract:

In Turkey, numerous studies have focused on the traditional architectural heritage in rural areas; however, there is a notable lack of architectural research centered on farms. The agricultural sector has undergone significant transformations in the past three decades due to advancements in production methods, reduced labour requirements, and changing product demands. As a consequence, traditional farm spaces have been compelled to transform.

In this study, the region of Cukurova was selected as the research area due to its high economic significance and its importance in understanding agricultural practices in Turkey. The agricultural transformations occurring in Cukurova are evident in the spatial elements of farms, space syntax, and human behavior. Fifteen active farms, constructed between 1850 and 1950, were chosen for analysis to identify traces of technology and human behaviour within the farm spaces. The objective was to delineate the boundaries between shared and private areas.

To test the validity of the research hypothesis, two sets of data were collected. The first set comprised behavioral data gathered through direct observations, while the second set consisted of plans generated from photogrammetric models created using drone photographs. Based on these plans, space syntax analyses were conducted to explore the farm layouts.

The findings of this research illustrate how the utilization of farms has evolved in response to technological advancements and changing living conditions. Recent shifts have defined and allocated private and production areas within farm layout plans. These morphological changes hold significant implications for modern farming practices, underscoring the need to examine the spatial adaptation processes within farm areas in Cukurova. Consequently, this thesis aims to shed light on the progressive spatial planning of farms over time and offer insights into sustainable spatial planning practices, particularly in contemporary and modern agricultural spaces.

Bio:

Mr. Fırat Ali Fırat completed her bachelor’s degree in architecture at Özyeğin University in 2020. Subsequently, in 2020, Fırat commenced her master's degree in architecture at Özyeğin University. His research focuses on space syntax theory, environmental behavior theory, farm architecture, and advanced technologies for architectural practice. At present, he actively engages in his master's thesis under the guidance of Prof. Dr Alper Ünlü. His recent achievements include the publication of conference papers at the 13th International Space Syntax Symposium, ECLASS 2022, and the 9th International Outdoor Education Research Conference.