How did your architectural journey begin, and how was GOOA Architects founded?
Our architectural journey is rooted in my academic path, which began at Istanbul Technical University and continued at the Politecnico di Milano. Studying in different cities and experiencing diverse cultures profoundly shaped my perspective on architecture. It provided me with a wealth of knowledge, both technically and conceptually, broadening the way I approach design.
After graduation, I had the opportunity to work in several architectural practices on projects of varying scales and typologies. During this time, I did not simply produce drawings; I sought to understand how a building is conceived, how it comes to life, and how it engages with people. A particularly significant turning point for me was leading the entire design and implementation process of Fox Turkey’s headquarters and studio complex.
All of these experiences culminated in the establishment of GOOA Architects in 2011. From the very beginning, our goal was clear: to merge our international architectural experience with local values and to create truly distinctive, enduring projects. We aspired not only to design buildings that are “visually appealing,” but also spaces that feel deeply rooted in their context—places that live and allow life to unfold. Looking back today, we take pride in having completed a wide range of works, from housing to office buildings, from public spaces to private projects. Each new endeavor feels like a discovery to us—transforming into a new question and a new answer. At GOOA, we remain committed to creating and learning with the same passion we had on the first day.
What are the key criteria and fundamental design principles you prioritize in your projects?
Functionality and aesthetics are the cornerstones of our designs. At GOOA, every project aims to create not merely a physical structure but an inhabitable, perceptible, and context-specific atmosphere. Shaped by principles of energy efficiency and environmental sensitivity, our projects offer users reliable, flexible, and sustainable solutions. Depth of content, material knowledge, and design strength stand as central dynamics in every process. Valuing the applicability of architectural thought as a responsibility, GOOA takes an active role in the realization of projects. From foundation to roof, all construction phases are carefully overseen with attention to technical proficiency, occupational safety, and compliance with standards—ensuring projects are completed fully and on time. For us, it is not simply about completing a building, but about ensuring it tells its story in its entirety.
Your portfolio seems to focus predominantly on residential works, particularly villa projects. What distinguishes residential architecture from other typologies?
Residential projects offer a far more personal realm of experience. When designing a home, we consider not only function but also the lifestyle, habits, and worldview of its users. While scale and program often dominate other typologies, in residential work, personalization, a sense of belonging, and everyday comfort take precedence. This is what makes them so unique and meaningful within the field of architecture.
What are the key criteria that guide your choice of building materials? Do you have particular materials you prefer?
We follow three main criteria when selecting materials: Harmony with the natural environment, durability, and sustainability, aesthetic contribution.
We prioritize local materials whenever possible. Natural stone, wood, and glass are among the materials we frequently employ. They are not only long-lasting but also imbue spaces with a strong sense of character.
What is the significance of natural stone in your projects, and in which areas do you employ it?
For us, natural stone is not merely a construction material; it is an element that defines the space’s identity. At GOOA, we actively incorporate stone into façades, landscape designs, and interior details. Stone ties the building to its geography, while also imparting a sense of permanence to the design.
What qualities make stone particularly appealing to you? And what distinguishes Turkish natural stones in particular?
What makes stone so compelling is its timelessness, durability, and inherent beauty. Turkish natural stones are remarkably rich in terms of color and texture. Materials such as travertine and marble provide us with the opportunity to establish a strong identity, not only in local projects but also on an international scale. This diversity allows us to develop a variety of design scenarios.
How do you position natural stone in your residential projects? In your Gift Hebil project, the use of stone is quite pronounced—how would you describe its role and importance there?
In residential projects, natural stone serves as a connective element. It builds a bridge between user and nature, between building and environment.
In the Gift Hebil project, our extensive use of stone was a deliberate decision to reflect the spirit of the surrounding landscape. The cultured stone used on the façade is not merely an aesthetic layer—it also embodies the building’s relationship with the climate. Stone provides cooling in summer and insulation in winter, reinforcing a natural equilibrium.
The memory embedded in stone imparts a timeless character. This quality not only lends our projects visual strength but also conveys a sense of lived experience. In this way, each building becomes a storyteller, narrating the unique identity of its place.
Gift Hebil by GOOA Architects
Gift Hebil by GOOA Architects
Gift Hebil by GOOA Architects
