LIFE-K / Yusuf Onuk
Kahramanmaraş is recognized as one of Turkey’s most ecologically rich regions, home to a diverse array of endemic plant and animal species. However, in recent decades, rapid urbanization, agricultural homogenization, and the escalating impacts of climate change have contributed to a sharp decline in local biodiversity. In response, the Maraş Biodiversity and Nature Research Center is envisioned as a multidisciplinary hub dedicated to conservation, research, and public awareness.
The architectural framework of the building is inspired by the Voronoi principle, a geometrical logic derived from patterns observed in biological cell structures. This system not only offers structural efficiency and visual coherence with nature but also symbolizes the organic connectivity of ecosystems. The building’s skeleton, constructed using this principle, allows for a lightweight yet resilient structure that blends harmoniously into its surrounding environment.
The center will house a seed bank for native flora, rehabilitation zones for endangered species, laboratories for ecological research, and interactive educational spaces for students and the public. Additionally, ecological trails, observation platforms, and seasonal exhibition areas will provide immersive experiences for visitors, promoting nature-based learning and environmental stewardship.
Developed with a participatory and inclusive design approach, the project aligns with global sustainability goals by integrating ecological protection with social benefit. The Maraş Biodiversity and Nature Research Center aims not only to preserve the region’s unique natural heritage but also to serve as a model for future ecological architecture and community-based conservation efforts.
