PORTFOLIO

DEFNE ZEYNEP ERGUN

SELECTED WORKS 2021-2024

ARCHITECTURE & PEOPLE SPACES SHAPING

In architecture, people play a vital role as the driving force, imbuing it with soul and purpose. While technology enhances the design and construction processes, it’s the human touch that makes architecture meaningful. Human insight and empathy create responsive spaces. The interplay between human intellect, emotion, and innovation leads to architectural marvels that resonate deeply with individuals and communities.

Architecture shapes experiences, and people infuse it with life and meaning. It offers shelter, inspiration, and a canvas for self-expression. Occupying and engaging with spaces, individuals breathe vitality and purpose into the built environment, forming a continuous feedback loop where architecture empowers people, and people imbue architecture with essence.

Together, architecture and people co-create a world that enhances the human experience. This portfolio showcases projects exemplifying the profound impact of architecture on those who interact with it. It stands as a testament to the power of design decisions in positively influencing lives, work, and experiences, fostering meaningful connections between people and the built environment.

HARVARD Fall

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1. Pathways, Perspectives & Interaction

PROJECT 01: “Living Single, Living Together” House of Shifting Paths

STU 1101 (Instructor: Carl D’Appolito Dworkin), Individual Residential Housing - GSD, Fall 2024

This project explores the relationship between form and social experience by transforming a given plan into a three-dimensional residence composed of two distinct yet interconnected units. Designed as a duplex that responds to evolving familial and communal relationships, the project reinterprets the classical grid by segmenting the plan into pavilions, each linked through diagonal pathways that soften rigid spatial structures. Rather than relying on traditional corridors, circulation unfolds through interconnected courtyards, sunken common areas, and level changes, fostering a dynamic flow of movement while maintaining the identity of each pavilion. These spatial strategies blur the boundaries between inside and outside, creating moments of transparency and layered perspectives that enhance interaction. By integrating circulation as an active design element, the project transforms movement into an experience—one that encourages exploration, strengthens social connections, and redefines the way residents engage with their shared environment.

GIVEN “PLAN”

GRAIN OF GRID & CIRCULATION

The circulation in this project follows the inherent grain of the grid while simultaneously disrupting its rigidity. Diagonal pathways emerge from the underlying structure, guiding movement organically through the segmented pavilions. Instead of imposing a strict hierarchy, circulation weaves through the grid, responding to its rhythm while softening its constraints. This dynamic flow reinforces the relationship between structure and experience, ensuring that movement feels both intuitive and spatially engaging.

Through level changes and shifting sightlines, the project transforms circulation into an exploratory experience. Diverse spatial conditions emerge, responding dynamically to inhabitants, creating a fluid and adaptable environment rather than a rigid, singular order.

2 Scale: 1’= 1/4”

This project reinterprets the classical grid, not by adhering to its rigid symmetry, but by adapting its logic to create a dynamic spatial experience. Inspired by Palladio’s Villa Rotonda, which exemplifies balanced geometric order and axial symmetry, this design shifts away from formal hierarchy. Instead of reinforcing a fixed circulation path, it employs differential pathways and interconnected courtyards that invite an evolving relationship between movement, perspective, and interaction.

2. Form, Perception & Movement

PROJECT 02: “Sample-Cut-Stitch”

Jump-Cut School

STU 1101 (Instructor: Carl D’Appolito Dworkin), Individual Art School - GSD, Fall 2024

In this project the given sections were stitched together through a careful manipulation of geometric form, where the spatial relationships between volumes were reimagined to foster an innovative circulation experience. By incorporating poche spaces as key interruptions in the vertical progression, I broke away from the traditional stacked layout, allowing the circulation to unfold horizontally and weave through key rooms at their junctions. These sections were reinterpreted and aligned at various angles to create dynamic pathways that respond to both the programmatic needs and the site’s context. The process of stitching these fragmented sections together resulted in a cohesive whole, where the movement between spaces feels less like a linear progression and more like a fluid journey, with each shift in form guiding the user’s experience and interaction with the building. The blending of these distinct sections through carefully placed folds and interwoven circulatory paths enhances the fluidity of the architectural journey, inviting users to explore and engage with the space in unexpected ways.

In the design, circulation becomes a central driver of the architectural journey, woven horizontally through key room intersections rather than hidden in traditional corridors. The poche spaces, embedded at these junctions, become visible through the angles of windows, shaping both internal movement and external perception. This creates a more interactive and engaging experience, where pathways are not simply functional but integral to the rhythm of the space. As circulation spreads and shifts, the building’s form responds to its context, with angled volumes and transitions between programmatic areas further enhancing the sense of continuity and connection throughout the site.

SECTION A

The concept of poche spaces serves as a disruption to the traditional flow of vertical circulation, introducing hidden pockets that shift the user’s movement and perception within the building. These spaces, often overlooked, are reimagined as key moments where the journey is broken and redefined. The idea of “jumping” through these pockets transforms the building’s procession, allowing the flow to continue in new directions, challenging the conventional vertical stack and creating a more dynamic spatial experience. By strategically placing these poche spaces, the building encourages a fluid, non-linear movement, where spaces are no longer confined to a single axis of progression.

Interior Perspective

3. Framing Space & Directing

Motion

PROJECT 03: “Spin-Off”

Inside-Out Library

STU 1101 (Instructor: Carl D’Appolito Dworkin), Individual Library - GSD, Fall 2024

This project explores the concept of architectural “spin-offs” by adapting an existing typology to create a unique, context-specific design. The central question I pose is whether it’s possible to design a building that allows the core to follow the exterior, creating a seamless relationship between vertical and horizontal elements. The design approach is rooted in the experience of pathways, perspectives, and interactions. The core of the building is envisioned as ordered and simple, offering a clear, functional foundation, while the shell becomes terraced and multifaceted, responding to its environment and the varying needs of users. By focusing on the dynamic interplay between the core and shell, this project aims to transform the library experience from an ordinary typology into something exceptional, where circulation and spatial relationships offer new ways of engaging with the architecture. The design follows an “unrolling” of a core simple library building and spinning off to a multi-facated perspective of the inside of this core.

The theoretical underpinning of this project draws on the concept of architectural evolution, where the relationship between the core and shell of a building becomes a dynamic, interdependent system rather than a static, hierarchical one. By “unrolling” the shell around the core, the project challenges traditional notions of enclosure, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior, and transforming the architectural experience into one of constant flux and adaptability.

Section 2

Scale: 1’-0”= 1/8”

The core, simple and ordered, serves as the stabilizing center, while the shell, multifaceted and terraced, unfolds in response to context, programmatic needs, and human interaction. This approach suggests that architecture can transcend fixed, predefined forms and instead become a living, responsive organism, where pathways and perspectives continually evolve, encouraging a more engaged and participatory experience for its users. The “spin-off” metaphor thus becomes not just a creative expansion of an existing typology, but a rethinking of how space, function, and form can interact in a flexible, open-ended manner, allowing architecture to adapt to both time and circumstance.

UNROLLED ELEVATION

4.HEALTH AND WELLBEING ASPECT

THE OASIS / SENIOR LIVING APARTMENTS

ARCH 372 (Instructor: Alejandro Lapunzina), Individual Residential Housing - Barcelona, Spain, Spring 2023

Located in a vibrant locale, the site is embraced by a diverse neighborhood, strategically positioned amidst community spaces. With the primary objective of furnishing a serene, convenient, and elevated environment, we meticulously crafted the complex as a confluence of individual units interconnected by well-planned circulation pathways. The pronounced prevalence of extensive free facades fosters harmonious engagement between the interior and exterior domains. Abundant sunlight, natural ventilation, and captivating vistas enhance well-being. This concept is manifest within each senior unit by centralizing the bathroom and strategically locating a wintergarden. The foremost aim is to ensure an all-encompassing, ecologically conscientious living environment for senior citizens. Sustainability takes precedence, achieved through a fully Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) structured building employing locally sourced and industrial materials from Poblenou. Furthermore, sustainability is further accentuated through enhanced accessibility, panoramic views, nurtured social interactions for bolstered mental well-being, and the creation of well-ventilated, illuminated spaces within the buildings.

IDEA OF VENTILATION AND VIEWS IN THE COMPLEX

IDEA OF VENTILATION AND VIEWS IN THE UNITS

The concept of arranging elements around a central focal point to enhance perspectives and optimize airflow within the complex is preserved within the individual unit by means of centralizing the bathroom and strategically situating a wintergarden.

PERSPECTIVE SECTION

There is a relationship between the program and plan of the building and its building envelope. They are both designed to be familiar and simple, taking into account what senior citizens would prefer. The shutters and contiguous jolly wall demonstrate the continuity within the building’s functions, such as the winter garden connecting to either the bedroom, kitchen, or the living room. This arrangement showcases how different areas within the units can be expanded based on personal preference. The overall concept within the unit offers numerous choices due to its simplicity.

COLLAGE SHOWING THE MATERIALITY AND THE USE OF THE WINTER GARDEN

MATERIALS

LATTICEWORK CERAMIC Guarantees ventilation and natural lighting.

SLIDING TECHNAL ALIMINUM CARPENTRY MODEL LUMEAL XL

CORRUGABLE SHUTTERS WITH ADJUSTABLE IROKO WOOD SLATS

PINE PLANKS (EXTERIOR FINISHING)

CLT WALL

encouraging a connection to nature by employing winter gardens to blur the lines between the

SOCIAL ASPECTS

The winter garden is left up to the user to decide how to use it, but it was designed as a social idea.

It has the potential to be a place of living, an extension of the living room, a dining area for senior citizens to socialize in, or a gardening area that has been shown to improve senior citizens' physical and mental health.

• Rooms that are cozy and welcoming are created while also encouraging a connection to nature by employing winter gardens to blur the lines between the interior and exterior.

NATURAL VENTILATION

There are various internal components that contribute to the unit's natural ventilation.

Winter gardens are strategically placed to serve as a natural ventilation source in units, allowing the summer winds from the south to pass through.

NATURAL VENTILATION

There are various internal components that contribute to the unit's natural ventilation.

• Winter gardens are strategically placed to serve as a natural ventilation source in units, allowing the summer winds from the south to pass through.

• More windows have been added, which will help to distribute this wind inside the apartment.

ILLUMINATION

The winter garden and the centrally located bathroom help to illuminate rooms with purpose within the perimeter of the structure, allowing the possibility of windows and light in every room.

• Additionally, latticed windows are strategically positioned in areas that require ventilation, such as the kitchen.

ILLUMINATION

The winter garden and the centrally located bathroom help to illuminate rooms with purpose within the perimeter of the structure, allowing the possibility of windows and light in every room.

• More windows have been added, which will help to distribute this wind inside the apartment. Additionally, latticed windows are strategically positioned in areas that require ventilation, such as the kitchen.

ILLUMINATION

The winter garden and the centrally located bathroom help to illuminate rooms with purpose within the perimeter of the structure, allowing the possibility of windows and light in every room.

• Residents can enjoy natural light, fresh air, and views of the outdoors in winter gardens, which can improve their mental health and general well-being.

• Residents can enjoy natural light, fresh air, and views of the outdoors in winter gardens, which can improve their mental health and general well-being.

• Residents can enjoy natural light, fresh air, and views of the outdoors in winter gardens, which can improve their mental health and general well-being.

5.CULTURAL IDENTITY AND EXPRESSION

WANDERING THE AGORA / PUBLIC LIBRARY

ARCH 371(Instructor: Carles Marcos), Team (Sabrina Liang) Library - Barcelona, Spain, Fall 2022 Fall 2022 Earl Prize 1st place Winner

The chapter explores architecture’s role in creating spaces that unite people and encourage social interaction. Architecture also preserves cultural identity, reflecting local traditions and values. Landmarks and urban spaces become symbols defining cities and fostering pride. An example to this is the “Wandering the Agora” project. Rooted in Gracia’s history, the city’s layout intricately weaves squares, streets, and plazas, fostering intergenerational convergence. These spaces evoke the charm of traditional courtyards, infusing urban life with a dynamic blend of nature and humanity. Amid modern shifts, the project preserves these squares, sustaining a vibrant atmosphere that resonates with the community’s innate affinity for nature.The newly erected library stands as a tribute to community ideals while offering an inclusive embrace. Thoughtful arrangement of bookshelves defines the primary circulation along the building’s edges, respecting its underlying structure. Concurrently, the circulation envelops a capacious central zone, adaptable for communal assemblies that touches to Gracia’s essence. Sustainability takes root through the utilization of locally-sourced cork—an eco-conscious material celebrated for insulation and environmental compatibility, perfectly harmonizing with the library’s ethos.

INDIVIDUAL:(Interior rendering, Exterior Collage, Perspective Section) TEAM:(Plans, Building Section)

PARTI DIAGRAM

Circulating around a central core has historically been a recurring theme, not limited to the Spanish way of life but emblematic of fundamental aspects of human behavior. This design aims to convey this concept comprehensively. Ultimately, it seeks to be more than just a library, instead serving as a pivotal gathering place within the Gracia neighborhood, fostering community unity. The overarching concept guiding this architectural project emphasizes simplicity and clarity in its execution. Every architectural element, from intricately detailed floor plans to the purposeful arrangement of columns within the structure, collectively contributes to an atmosphere characterized by both openness and an inherent force that propels people to move around the central core.

The library’s essential character is subtly emphasized by incorporating bookshelves as integral components of this unique structural design. This deliberate inclusion not only provides individuals with a platform to showcase their cultural interests but also empowers them to freely express their unique identities.

SQUARE TIMBER 105x105

SQUARE TIMBER 100x75

PIECE ANGLE: 75x75, 16

SQUARE TIMBER 105x56

BUILDING SECTION

0m 0.2m 0.6m 1.2m

Scale: 1:20

BUILDING SECTION

6. PROSPECT + REFUGE + SCALE

STEEL-SCAPES / FABRICATION + INNOVATION CENTER

ARCH 473 (Instructor: Randy Deutsch), Individual Steel Innovation Center - St. Louis, MO, USA, Fall 2023 Fall 2023 Earl Prize Nominee

Our ancestors, in crafting their habitats, inherently understood the harmonious dance between built environments and the organic landscape. Theoretical explorations, therefore, become a reflection of this innate yearning, a poignant reminder that, despite technological strides, we carry within us an enduring connection to the natural realm. This theoretical lens, poised on the importance of human scale within monumental architectural endeavors, captures the essence of our lived experiences. The crux lies in recognizing that every architectural masterpiece should not only awe with its scale but also resonate intimately with those who inhabit its spaces. “Steel Scapes” harmonizes sustainable steel structures and transparent buffer zones, challenging the conventional separation between organic and inorganic realms. The project’s essence lies in its ability to balance diverse functions while introducing a “steel forest,” where the tactile meets the industrial. At its philosophical core, the project emphasizes the significance of the human scale in expansive undertakings, ensuring a profound connection within the grandeur. “Steel Scapes” transcends mere physicality; it embodies a philosophical exploration, inviting individuals to navigate its steel forest, intertwining contemporary experiences with an enduring connection to our roots.

FLOOR PLANS

Prospect & refuge in architecture refers to the intentional design and incorporation of spaces that offer a sense of comfort, safety, and retreat, often inviting individuals to engage with the environment from a sheltered or contemplative vantage point. It emphasizes creating areas within structures where people can find solace, fostering a harmonious relationship between the built environment and human well-being.

TRANSVERSAL PERSPECTIVE SECTION

S-E WALL SECTION AND PARTIAL ELEVATION

This theoretical lens, poised on the importance of human scale within monumental architectural endeavors, captures the essence of our lived experiences. Regardless of the colossal proportions, an architectural marvel should maintain a profound connection with the individuals who navigate its corridors. Within the project’s structures, the essence of human scale is preserved. The visionary concept of a “tree-house” is maintained as individuals move through cantilevered pieces, treelike columns, and steel tubes. This concept resonates with Steel-Scapes, where steel surrounds yet also embraces a natural, childlike prospective refuge perspective of humanity.

The more foreign things are for you, the more your attitude, the way you ask questions or try to reach a symbiosis, a catalyst, an ‘awareness’ of the issue raised, which your interloctors haven’t got a clue about, spurs you on till you get solutions.

-Jean Nouvel (from El Croquis, no: 183)

DEFNE ZEYNEP ERGUN