MEMORY STONES / Hatice Sude Büyükbakırcı
A Palimpsest of Sinasos
The project, Memory Stones, intertwines architecture and landscape to revive the historical and cultural essence of Mustafapaşa, formerly known as Sinasos. The concept of palimpsest serves as the foundation, reflecting the layered history of the region—geological, historical, and cultural. The project delicately inserts contemporary architecture into the natural topography, embracing the traces of ancient stonework and the hydrogeography that shaped the village’s identity. Situated at the confluence of the town’s historical path and revitalized water streams, the design reinterprets indigenous stone-carving traditions within a modern framework. The use of structural stone vaults and exposed steel trusses symbolizes a harmony between past and present. The architectural language echoes the interplay between solid permanence and open transparency, with spaces that invite light, air, and the surrounding landscape into the daily life of the occupants. The site plan emphasizes connectivity and fluidity, with green pockets and courtyards acting as social hubs. The program integrates communal gathering spaces, exhibition areas, and workshops, celebrating both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary art. Workshops buzz with activity, where stone-carving techniques passed down through generations are adapted to modern contexts. The afternoons invite exploration of the layered architectural forms—wandering between modern interventions and ancient remnants, uncovering the dialogue between old and new. The aura of the project lies in its reverence for history and commitment to sustainability. It fosters a sense of belonging through its thoughtful spatial organization, ensuring that both past and present contribute to the narrative of Sinasos, creating a space that not only honors memory but also inspires future generations.
