LAYERED TRANSITION – PAUSE CORRIDOR
Rapid urban transformation often weakens the relationships between people, public spaces, and the city itself. Located between Hunat and Sahabiye, two historically significant districts in the center of Kayseri, this project investigates how fragmented urban layers can be reconnected through a contemporary public space strategy. The proposal builds upon the concept of Layered Transition, which examines the loss of spatial continuity across different urban scales. Rather than introducing a single architectural object, the project develops the Pause Corridor, a sequence of interconnected public spaces that encourages movement, encounter, rest, and everyday social interaction.
Beginning at the Sanat Melikgazi Cultural Center and extending to the Sahabiye Bazaar Area, the corridor transforms existing streets, open spaces, and transition zones into a continuous pedestrian experience. Along the route, a series of lightweight modular canopy structures defines pause nodes that support activities such as studying, meeting, waiting, cultural events, temporary exhibitions, and community gatherings. Inspired by the geometric language of Kayseri’s architectural heritage, including the Sırçalı Dome, Hunat Hatun Madrasah, and the Kapalı Çarşı, the canopy system reinterprets local architectural references through a contemporary and adaptable design language. Different canopy typologies respond to varying urban conditions, creating spaces that can evolve according to changing social and environmental needs. This modular approach strengthens spatial continuity while reinforcing the identity of the corridor.
Ultimately, Pause Corridor proposes a contemporary framework for reconnecting fragmented urban layers through a series of strategic, human-scaled interventions. Rather than relying on large architectural objects, the project introduces an adaptable public space system that encourages everyday encounters, strengthens spatial continuity, and supports long-term social and environmental sustainability. By reinterpreting Kayseri’s architectural heritage through a contemporary design language, the proposal establishes a flexible urban identity that can evolve alongside the city and its communities.
