The Hanging Melody
The Hanging Melody is a personal retreat designed as a place of escape, creativity, and self expression through music. Located within a rocky landscape overlooking the sea, the project explores how architecture can support the creative process by establishing a strong relationship between nature, sound, and emotion. The design is composed of interconnected spaces that accommodate different stages of musical production. A smaller, more intimate space is dedicated to writing lyrics and reflecting, while a larger space provides room for composing, rehearsing, and recording music. Between these spaces, a semi-open porch creates a transition zone where the user can experience the surrounding environment and find inspiration from natural elements such as wind, light, and sound. The project emphasizes the sensory qualities of the site. Natural daylight enters the spaces throughout the day, creating changing atmospheres that influence mood and creativity. The rocky terrain is not treated as an obstacle but as an integral part of the architectural experience, allowing the building to feel embedded within its landscape. Large openings frame views of the sea and sky, reinforcing the connection between the user and nature. Rather than functioning solely as a shelter, The Hanging Melody acts as a creative instrument. It provides an environment where distractions are minimized and artistic expression is encouraged. Through its careful integration with the landscape and its focus on the experience of making music, the project transforms architecture into a space for inspiration, reflection, and creative freedom.
RHYTHM VALLEY
Rhythm valley is a small community designed for musicians who live, create, and share their music within the unique landscape of Soğanlı Valley. Inspired by the traditional concept of an oba, the project brings together private retreat spaces, collaborative production areas, and public performance venues, creating an environment where music becomes part of everyday life.The settlement consists of five individual escape houses located on the upper levels of the site. These spaces provide privacy, solitude, and opportunities for personal creativity. While each musician has a personal living and working environment, the shared recording studio serves as the collective heart of the community. Here, musicians gather to rehearse, record, exchange ideas, and collaborate on new productions.
One of the project’s most distinctive qualities is its relationship with the natural environment. The sounds of the valley, especially the sounds of the pigeons inhabiting the historic pigeon houses, become part of the creative process. Rather than isolating music from nature, the project embraces these natural rhythms and sounds as sources of inspiration and musical expression. At the lower level of the site, an open-air stage creates a connection between the community and visitors. Musicians can perform concerts, share their work, and engage with audiences in a setting surrounded by the valley’s landscape. This public zone transforms rhythm valley from a private settlement into a cultural destination where creativity is experienced collectively. Rhythm valley is more than a place to live; it is a living ecosystem of music. By combining private retreats, shared production spaces, natural soundscapes, and public performances, the project creates a unique environment where architecture, nature, and music exist in harmony.
