CoMeDe LAB+

Located within the historic urban fabric of Kayseri, adjacent to the Cami Kebir and the archaeological remains of the former Melik Gazi Madrasah, COMEDE LAB+ reinterprets the relationship between cultural heritage and contemporary civic life. Rather than reconstructing the lost architecture, the project aims to reveal, preserve, and activate the historical layers embedded within the site while creating a platform for collective learning, production, and social interaction.
The design is organized around the concept of temporal continuity, establishing a dialogue between the past, present, and future. Archaeological remains are preserved as the primary generators of the spatial organization. At the lower levels, visitors experience the historical traces through transparent flooring systems and exhibition routes that allow direct visual engagement with the excavated structures. These spaces function as immersive experience studios, exhibition galleries, and temporary workshop environments, enabling users to interact with heritage rather than merely observe it.
A flexible spatial system is introduced through movable rail-mounted panels and modular elements. This strategy allows spaces to adapt to changing educational, cultural, and community-oriented activities while minimizing physical intervention on the archaeological context. The project therefore becomes a living framework capable of evolving with the needs of its users.
At ground level, the design extends into the urban landscape, transforming the site into a public gathering space that reconnects fragmented historical elements with contemporary urban life. Open seating areas, event zones, and pedestrian routes create a seamless transition between the city and the cultural complex. The landscape acts as an extension of the architectural program, encouraging spontaneous encounters, collective participation, and outdoor learning activities.
COMEDE LAB+ redefines the traditional notion of a library and cultural center through the cycle of “Come – Meet – Develop.” Knowledge is no longer passively consumed but actively produced and shared through collaborative workshops, exhibitions, maker spaces, and social platforms. The project promotes a participatory culture where every visitor becomes both a learner and a contributor.
By integrating archaeological preservation, adaptive public space, and contemporary production environments, COMEDE LAB+ establishes a new civic landmark for Kayseri. It creates a meaningful connection between the memory of the site and the creative potential of future generations, demonstrating how cultural heritage can serve as a catalyst for innovation, education, and community engagement.