Inspired by the deep-rooted geological character of Kayseri and the volcanic history of Mount Erciyes, Kayseri Geology High School is an innovative campus project that offers high school students both theoretical and practical education in tandem. The main focus of the design is to translate the local stones and earth layers of the region into the space through a dynamic architectural language.
Landscape and Historical Context
The existing ecological and historical values within the project site form the backbone of the design. Qualified trees within the boundaries of the land have been fully preserved; the historical fountain, which had been idle for a long time, has been restored, placed at the center of the landscape, and reopened for public use. To support the sustainable campus vision, charging stations for electric vehicles have been resolved in the parking area, ensuring future-oriented infrastructure integration.
Spatial Organization and Practical Application Areas
Extensive excavation areas have been designed in the open field for practical courses, which form the heart of the educational program. To enable students to experience their theoretical knowledge in the field, the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces has been resolved with maximum fluidity:
Ground Floor Workshops: The stone and mineral workshops, positioned on the ground floor of the educational building, open directly onto the outdoor excavation areas. In this way, direct and uninterrupted access to the excavation site is provided during the courses.
Terrace Stone Observation Workshop: Located on the roof level of the building, this open-air workshop allows students to examine the texture, color, and crystal structures of stones under natural light and direct sunlight.
With its preserved natural fabric, landscape elements that connect with the past, and the functional circulation scheme established between the ground floor and the terrace, Kayseri Geology High School offers its students a living laboratory experience.
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