RESONANCE PATH / Aleyna Tokel
The Transformation of Sound into Space: A Rhythmic Journey within Kayseri Castle
This project aims to create new spaces integrated into the existing structure of Kayseri Castle, respecting its historical and protected nature, without compromising its past defensive purpose. Throughout history, the castle has been used as an introverted structure, with additions to its exterior being avoided. Based on this analysis, the project’s main layout is designed to be inward-looking, with spaces positioned to integrate with the castle walls. Outside the bastions, only a circulation corridor is provided to draw attention to the Artists’ Street and increase public interaction. This corridor guides users coming from outside towards the city and the castle, while the internal spatial density respects the castle’s historical continuity.
The design consists of spaces functioning as areas for musical instrument production, exhibition, and performance. The units are connected to the bastions at an angle, each conceived as parts of a musical note and shaped to fulfill different functions. From above, triangular and square forms symbolize the shapes of musical instruments, the diversity of sound, and its rhythmic structure. Layered paths, elevation differences, and controlled transitions offer users a rhythmic spatial experience.
The units, integrated with the castle walls, create an architectural symphony that unites the traces of the past with the future. Each space represents a transition from silence to sound, from stillness to movement. Workshops, course areas, and small performance venues function as a whole, while the flow and visual relationships between spaces determine the composition’s rhythm.
From the user’s perspective, these spaces host different age groups throughout the day. In the morning, masters begin crafting instruments in their workshops, while children explore music in the course areas. During the day, visitors observe the production process and experience the exhibited instruments. In the evenings, melodies echoing in the performance areas integrate the castle’s past silence with music.
