Constructing Space: Physical versus Immaterial? Coffeehouse in the Ottoman/Turkish Society

Abstract

Architectural space is a complex phenomenon, comprising of physical and immaterial characteristics. Physical, together with intangible variables, define space. The concern of this study is to understand and discuss space in the example of coffeehouse of the Ottoman-Turkish society, the underlying issues related to the existence and endurance of the coffeehouse space in spite of the societal and environmental transformation going on within its context in history. The approach followed is interpretation of literature, selected texts that use coffeehouse as setting. The aim is to initiate further search for understanding the generic issues that form space and ensure its continuity.