Architecture News

A remarkable apartment transformation in a 1939 Düsseldorf building showcases Urselmann Interior's dedication to circular design principles. The project meticulously incorporates materials intended for complete disassembly and reuse, demonstrating a pioneering approach to sustainable living.

Maximizing the utility of the apartment's modest dimensions, the design studio implemented several clever spatial adjustments. By removing select internal walls and a doorway, the entry area, kitchen, dining space, and living room were unified into a fluid, open-plan environment. Multi-level platforms and adaptable textiles were strategically employed to delineate various functional zones without resorting to permanent partitions. For instance, a heavy, curved curtain in the living area can be extended to create a private guest room around a sofa. In the bedroom, a tiered timber platform thoughtfully integrates a desk, a meditation nook, and an elevated sleeping area, all capable of being discreetly hidden by a full-height curtain during daylight hours. The interior's color scheme, drawing inspiration from Luis Barragán's architectural palette, features a lively Mexican Pink in the entrance leading into serene green-blue living spaces, accented with lustrous turquoise tiles and carefully placed houseplants.

This innovative apartment renovation exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to residential design, proving that aesthetic appeal and functional versatility can coexist harmoniously with strong environmental stewardship. By prioritizing materials that can be reclaimed and reprocessed, and by creating spaces that are inherently adaptable, the project offers a compelling vision for future sustainable urban living. It underscores the potential for thoughtful design to not only enhance daily life but also to contribute positively to ecological balance and resource conservation.

In southwestern Turkey, a remarkable 55-square-meter civic structure, known as the Karaköy Timber Extension, emerged from the collaborative efforts of the Datça Summer Workshop 2026. This initiative brought together students and faculty from İstanbul Bilgi University, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, and Wentworth Institute of Technology, with Sebastian Erazo and Stefano Pugliese providing design and construction guidance. The pavilion, strategically placed adjacent to the village's active communal grounds, offers much-needed shade, practical work surfaces, storage solutions, and shared seating, facilitating various community activities such as wedding preparations, seasonal markets, and civic assemblies.

The design philosophy of the Karaköy Timber Extension by Erazo Pugliese is rooted in the çardak, a traditional seasonal agricultural shelter prevalent in the Datça Peninsula. This influence is evident in its lightweight timber construction, which, notably, does not require permanent concrete foundations. Instead, the wooden framework rests directly on the ground, serving as an integral, large-scale outdoor furniture piece. The facade is defined by a sequence of repetitive frames, which thoughtfully incorporate wooden boards to create preparation counters, display areas, and a continuous bench facing the central open space. Inspired by traditional Turkish bazaar canopies, tensioned fabric panels provide overhead shading, offering protection without rigid enclosure. These textiles are designed for easy removal to adapt to winter wind conditions, secured by timber battens fitted into sewn pockets and fastened with elastic cords and hooks.

This innovative structure stands as a testament to the power of collaborative design and traditional architectural principles. Its adaptable nature ensures it remains a vital component of village life, seamlessly transitioning between different functions as the seasons and community needs change. The pavilion not only provides practical amenities but also fosters a sense of unity and shared space, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region while embracing contemporary design practices.

The Karaköy Timber Extension is more than just a building; it is a dynamic piece of infrastructure that supports and enhances the collective activities of the village. Its thoughtful integration of local architectural heritage with modern construction techniques exemplifies a sustainable and community-focused approach to design. By offering a versatile and inviting space, the pavilion contributes significantly to the social fabric of Karaköy, ensuring that traditions are upheld and community bonds are strengthened for years to come.