REVI-NEXUS / Nazende Yaren Yılmaz
The REVI-NEXUS project aims to breathe life back into the historic and cultural fabric of Mustafapaşa (formerly Sinasos), focusing on its pre-1924 population exchange lifestyle. Situated on a naturally sloped terrain with eco-corridors shaped by centuries of viticulture, the project draws inspiration from the traditional grape harvest festivals and viticulture practices that once sustained the local economy. This revitalization effort serves as both a celebration of heritage and a strategic move toward ecological sustainability and economic growth through eco-tourism. The project’s spatial design integrates a central circulation system defined by a ramp, symbolizing the continuous flow of cultural heritage and ecological processes. The ramp connects two distinct structures on either side of a main road, weaving through terraces, courtyards, and semi-open gathering spaces. These spaces are designed to foster interaction and provide immersive experiences, including educational workshops, fermentation gardens, tasting rooms, and exhibition areas. Seasonal harvest and planting festivals bring the fermentation gardens to life, offering hands-on activities for visitors. The structural character of the project blends traditional and contemporary elements. Locally sourced stone and reclaimed wood reflect the architectural language of Sinasos, while tensile membranes and steel frameworks provide lightweight, adaptable shading for outdoor spaces. Roof forms seamlessly transition into ramps, creating a dynamic and unified aesthetic that responds to the site’s topography. The design emphasizes permeability and sustainability, incorporating green roofs, vertical gardens, and permeable paving to manage water runoff and reinforce ecological connectivity. From the perspective of a student attending one of the educational workshops, the project offers a rich narrative of discovery. Imagine walking up the gently sloped ramp, surrounded by the earthy scent of grapevines and the vibrant colors of blooming lavender and thyme. The terraces and courtyards buzz with activity—in one corner, participants crush grapes for fermentation; in another, a tasting session introduces the complex flavors of local wines. Interactive displays in the exhibition spaces narrate the region’s history, connecting past and present. The fusion of indoor and outdoor learning spaces invites continuous exploration, while the surrounding landscape frames every moment with breathtaking views of the vineyards. The REVI-NEXUS project is more than a building; it is a living organism that breathes heritage, learning, and sustainability into Mustafapaşa. It rekindles cultural traditions while creating pathways for future generations to engage with the land and its history in meaningful and transformative ways.
