CONFLUENCE / Ece Akpınar
A Multicultural Experience Design in Ürgüp Mustafapaşa: Vineyards, Wine, and a Sense of Belonging
Inspired by the multicultural character of Ürgüp Mustafapaşa, this project centers on the shared heritage of the region: vineyards and wine production. The primary theme of the design is to revive the sense of belonging for those who were displaced from the area during population exchanges, offering them a space to feel “at home.” Within this context, a three-story structure with fluid and organic forms has been designed.
The program of the structure includes a wine tasting area, a wine production facility, wine therapy rooms, and accommodation units. The wine production processes are integrated into the design as both a ritual and a medium for connection. Therapeutic wine applications leverage the antioxidant properties of wine to provide physical and spiritual renewal. This process aims to refresh users’ ties to their past while offering a unique healing experience for their spirits.
The architectural design draws inspiration from the fluid and organic forms of nature. Flowing forms create a sense of natural movement throughout the building and harmonize with the undulating landscape of the vineyards. The design aligns with the “fluidity” concept and takes cues from organic formalism, enabling users to establish both physical and emotional connections with the space. Transparency and permeability enhance the interaction between interior spaces and the natural environment, visually linking the vineyards and wine tanks into a cohesive narrative.
The three-story structure is designed to ensure seamless interaction between the levels. The ground floor houses the wine tasting area, the upper floor accommodates living spaces and social interaction zones, while the lowest floor includes therapy rooms and meditation spaces. This spatial organization allows users to feel at home while embarking on a journey of spiritual and physical renewal. The project aspires to rediscover cultural heritage, strengthen the bond between humans, nature, and space, and rebuild multicultural identity through the medium of wine.
