Dynamic Habitat / Esma Berru Ömerli

For this project, my primary goal was to redefine how a mixed-use building interacts with its users. Rather than separating living spaces from social areas, I wanted to create a “Dynamic Habitat”, a place where residential life and public interaction blend seamlessly. The design is built around the idea of inclusivity; it provides a variety of spaces where everyone, whether a long-term resident or a daily visitor, can find a corner to pursue what they love. 

The social aspect is the engine of the design. I wanted to move away from the isolation often found in modern housing. To achieve this, the circulation spaces play a major role. By intentionally tightening certain areas, such as the corridors, and opening them up into shared zones, the architecture naturally encourages people to cross paths. These design choices turn routine movements into opportunities to socialize, fostering a genuine sense of community within the structure. 

Externally, the building’s form was not arbitrary; it was sculpted directly by the site’s dynamic views. The geometry shifts and turns to frame specific perspectives of the city, rooting the structure firmly in its location. 

However, the most critical challenge was the context. The site sits right on the edge between a rich historical district and a developing modern area. To bridge this gap, I utilized a clean, white façade. This choice acts as a visual mediator. The neutral white surface creates a smooth, respectful transition that ties the texture of the historical heritage to the sleekness of the new buildings, allowing the project to stand out without overpowering its neighbors.