ERDEM HAMZA ARCHITECTURE Located in Alaçatı, Izmir, the Alaçatı Stone House draws inspiration from its 130-year history, with its interior and landscape design crafted by Erdem Hamza Architecture. The building’s restoration, carried out by Saruhan Architecture in 2008 using local craftsmen and materials, was completed in 2012 and officially registered by the Izmir No. 1… View Article
ERDEM HAMZA ARCHITECTURE
Located in Alaçatı, Izmir, the Alaçatı Stone House draws inspiration from its 130-year history, with its interior and landscape design crafted by Erdem Hamza Architecture. The building’s restoration, carried out by Saruhan Architecture in 2008 using local craftsmen and materials, was completed in 2012 and officially registered by the Izmir No. 1 Conservation Board in 2018. Originally used as a residence for the extraction of olive oil and gum tree resin, the house now aims to unveil the hidden layers of its past, blending historical spirit with a design focused on tranquility and peaceful living. The stone walls, bearing the marks of time, breathe new life into the space, offering users a distinct experience across different eras. The project features a house with a central garden, seamlessly integrating open and closed outdoor spaces with a fluid, independent layout that invites exploration.
The building spans two floors: the ground floor includes three bedrooms, a kitchen, and a study, while the first floor houses the living room, dining area, and a bedroom. A pool positioned in the garden acts as a dynamic vertical element, reflecting the movement of greenery and the sky, enhancing the building’s liveliness. The façade, with its 130-year-old raw color tone, sets the tone for the interior, creating a consistent atmosphere throughout. The design harmonizes modern living requirements with the preserved character of the house, blending light and shadow, with subtle details, and the use of light materials playing a key role in the holistic approach. Wooden beams and ceiling interfaces foster a living space dynamic, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadow. In keeping with the preservation of the house’s authenticity, gum tree motifs—symbols of the past—are prominently featured on the walls. All furniture was custom-designed for the project, selected for its simplicity, durability, and deep connection to the “place,” ensuring the home offers a harmonious and timeless environment. The Alaçatı Stone House remains true to its 130-year-old identity, providing a peaceful retreat for its residents and visitors alike.