In the heart of Istanbul, a city where East meets West, a unique housing experiment is unfolding. Turkey, a nation straddling two continents, is grappling with the impacts of Western housing practices on its social housing landscape. A recent study published in the Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Planning, translated from Turkish as Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Urban Planning, sheds light on this complex interplay, offering insights that could reshape the future of housing and energy efficiency.
The study, led by Fatema Alhashemi from Özyeğin University, delves into the evolution of Western housing policies and their limitations in the modern social context. It’s a tale of two worlds colliding, of industrialization’s relentless march and the human need for adequate accommodation.
“Western housing practices, while providing a blueprint, often fall short in addressing the unique cultural and socio-economic challenges of countries like Turkey,” Alhashemi explains. The sudden population influx due to mass migration has led to poor living conditions and a lack of proper accommodation, issues that Western models struggle to address.
The research highlights the adaptability, challenges, and opportunities presented by Western housing policies in Turkey’s distinct environment. It’s a story of resilience, of a nation learning from the West but forging its own path. For instance, Turkey’s Geçmişteki Konutlar (Historic Housing) project, which aims to preserve and renovate historic buildings for social housing, is a testament to this adaptability.
But what does this mean for the energy sector? As Turkey strives to meet its Paris Agreement commitments, energy efficiency in housing becomes crucial. Western practices, with their focus on sustainable materials and smart technologies, offer a roadmap. However, as Alhashemi points out, “The key lies in adapting these practices to our context, not just replicating them.”
The study suggests that future developments in Turkey’s social housing could see a blend of Western technologies and local traditions. Imagine smart homes powered by renewable energy, designed with local materials and cultural aesthetics. This fusion could not only provide adequate accommodation but also reduce Turkey’s carbon footprint.
Moreover, the research underscores the importance of understanding the local context. What works in London or Los Angeles might not work in Istanbul or Ankara. It’s a call for a more nuanced, culturally sensitive approach to housing and energy policies.
As Turkey continues to grapple with its housing challenges, this study serves as a beacon, guiding the way forward. It’s a reminder that while we can learn from the West, we must also look within, to our own strengths and traditions. The future of Turkey’s social housing, and indeed its energy sector, lies in this delicate balance.
