Revitalizing Adana: The Transformation of Seyhan Sucuzade Urban Square

In the bustling city of Adana, Turkey, a remarkable urban renewal project has emerged, spearheaded by the innovative minds at PLUG architecture firm. This ambitious endeavor, spanning an impressive 55,202 square meters, seeks to breathe new life into the city’s landscape while creating vibrant public spaces for the community to enjoy.

A Visionary Team: Architects and Collaborators

Led by a team of talented architects including Busra Al, Bihter Öztürk, Ozan Özdilek, Merve Siper, Ceren Kocabıyık, and Dilan Kenez, along with contributions from various collaborators such as NOA for landscape design, Çözüm Engineering for structural engineering, Alsancak Engineering for mechanical engineering, and Tapan Engineering for electrical engineering, the project represents a collaborative effort to redefine urban living in Adana.

A Story of Urban Revitalization: The Journey of Adana Seyhan Sucuzade Urban Square

The journey of Adana Seyhan Sucuzade Urban Square began with a national architectural competition in 2016, culminating in the commencement of construction in 2017. In contrast to the existing low-rise structures, the project aimed to optimize space utilization by reducing the footprint of buildings and creating expansive public areas. Within a 34,000 square meter urban plot, a sprawling 19,000 square meter public square was crafted, incorporating existing clusters mandated by municipal regulations.

Design Principles: Embracing Permeability and Community Engagement

The design process prioritized the preservation of existing cluster boundaries, while simultaneously introducing a central void area encircled by a construction line delineating streets and perimeters. This open ground floor plan fosters seamless public flow from the surrounding areas into the heart of the public square, creating a permeable urban perimeter that enhances accessibility and engagement.

Structural Innovation: Floating Structures and Social Reinforcements

A key feature of the project is the integration of diverse structures floating within the public void. Through a meticulously planned system, existing shop owners and rights holders were accommodated in newly constructed commercial areas, ensuring continuity and community involvement. The project comprises seven clusters, including commercial spaces, a women’s academy, student dormitories, a cultural center, exhibition venues, and the expansive public square.

Environmental Considerations: Responding to Climate and Geography

In addition to promoting social interaction and economic vitality, the project addresses environmental concerns by incorporating open corridors on all floors to facilitate wind circulation. The plinth typology creates semi-open shadow areas, characterized by double-height arcades that provide respite from the hot climate of Adana. By harmonizing architectural innovation with environmental sustainability, the project offers a holistic approach to urban development.

In conclusion, the transformation of Adana Seyhan Sucuzade Urban Square represents a testament to the power of visionary design and collaborative urban planning. Through thoughtful integration of public spaces, community engagement, and environmental responsiveness, the project not only redefines the cityscape of Adana but also sets a precedent for sustainable urban development on a global scale.