STAGE SINASOS / Yahya Kaan Çakır
Sinasos (now Mustafapaşa), located in Nevşehir, is a historic settlement that emerged as a shared space for Greeks and Turks in the 19th century, characterized by its rich cultural heritage and unique architectural identity. This project seeks to reinterpret the village’s complex history and architectural fabric through a contemporary lens while preserving its deep-rooted essence. By embracing both its historical significance and present-day potential, the design aims to create a harmonious balance between past and present.
Drawing inspiration from Henri Lefebvre’s concept of “The Production of Space,” the project takes Sinasos’ amphitheatrically organized settlement as its foundation. The village’s topography, which naturally culminates at its lowest point in the town square, plays a pivotal role in the design. Here, the square is reimagined as a dynamic stage for social interaction, a central gathering point where the community’s historical and social dimensions converge. Around the square, a network of public and semi-public spaces—including cafés, restaurants, and shaded seating areas—has been designed to encourage interaction among residents and visitors, fostering a sense of belonging.
The architectural approach integrates Sinasos’ historical narrative, acknowledging its dual identity: a village once inhabited by Greeks before the population exchange of 1923, later resettled by Turks from Thessaloniki. This layered history is reflected in the choice of materials, spatial configurations, and design language. The use of locally sourced Sinasos stone connects the new structures with the village’s historic fabric while emphasizing environmental sustainability. Traditional craftsmanship is reinterpreted through contemporary design techniques, bridging the old and the new in a seamless dialogue.
Additionally, the project prioritizes the creation of spaces that evoke a sense of home and community. Inspired by the idea of shared living, the design proposes multifunctional spaces where cultural exchange and collective memory can thrive. The design encourages slow, meaningful experiences, offering opportunities for reflection and connection, whether through shared meals, local crafts, or storytelling events.
By creating a platform for cultural and social exchange, the project aspires to make Sinasos a place where both locals and visitors feel a sense of belonging. It envisions the town square not only as a functional space but as a living, breathing embodiment of the village’s rich heritage and its potential for future growth. In doing so, the design pays homage to Sinasos’ past while reimagining its role in the contemporary world.
The amphitheatrical organization of the settlement influences not only the spatial hierarchy but also the visual and experiential flow of the design. The cascading arrangement of buildings allows for uninterrupted views of the valley, enhancing the connection between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. Social spaces, such as cafés, workshops, and shaded seating areas, are strategically placed to promote interaction and engagement.
