Critical Spatial Reasoning in Designing: A Visitor’s Centre Relating to Beylikdüzü Archaeological Site, Istanbul

Abstract

Architectural Design Studio helps students develop the skills to abstract, conceptualise and analyse space. This paper addresses the process of developing critical thinking and design, focusing on the central project, relating to Beylikdüzü Archaeological Excavation Site in Istanbul, Turkiye. This project provides the opportunity for students to explore the context, restrictions of the site and metaphors in design while operating more as an incubator for collaboration than a formal studio course. More specifically, the project aims to improve links between the welcome centre and the archaeological site and hence fills a research gap by exploring the value of producing three-dimensional thinking able to deliver architectural solutions that are new to the context. The purpose of the study is to investigate students' abilities in site analysis, topography and environment for appropriate designs that are functional and sustainable. Methods such as SWOT analysis and topographical studies are incorporated within the framework to propose a unified design solution that is sensitive to both the archaeological site and cultural attachment. The results show integrated and innovative solutions that combined the welcome centre with the archaeological area, helping to enrich the visitor experience. Cultural preservation and taking into consideration the value of archaeological sites to integrate them with minimum damage in new architectural interventions is another aspect seen through this project. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.