Architectural and Social Adaptation of Traditional Housing from Past to Present; the Sample of Karahüyük in Konya

Abstract

The rapid urbanization caused by Industrial Revolution has become a problem for all cities around the world. The transformation began with reinforced concrete structures and continued with the use of iron and steel has led to a new era in buildings. With the recent social and cultural changes, traditional materials and sustainable housing are no longer preferred. Therefore, people are abandoning their traditional homes and neighborhoods. The recent increase in apartment construction has narrowed the distance between people, but has also led to a lack of social interaction. In contrast, when distances are greater in traditional housing neighborhoods, human relationships become stronger, and traditional living spaces close to nature also create a comfortable social space. Therefore, restoration and reinforcement work, including addressing spatial and structural deficiencies, is necessary for traditional living areas to continue to be used. Konya is one of the cities where villages on the outskirts of the city are undergoing transformation and becoming central neighborhoods. One of these transformations is taking place in the Karahüyük neighborhood of Meram district in Konya. While the neighborhood continues to stand with original and traditional materials and techniques, it is caught in an intermediate section between rapid urbanization. In this study it is shown that a traditional residential structure can meet the needs of modern life and the requirements of a modern family while providing comfort. The condition of a building made with traditional materials and structure, such as adobe, in a traditional region is discussed, and the spatial happiness of a modern family living with a traditional perspective in the region is conveyed. In conclusion it is reached that social, ecological, and economic sustainability can be achieved without disrupting traditional pattern and construction.