KHAS AMPHIGARDEN

Historical Seferikoz Cistern and other archeological remains are just below the ground therefore an important design parameter was to avoid digging for any foundation. The design team developed a spacial strategy that included raising the ground level at both ends of the area with a stage in the middle and two slopes rising to two metres at the highest ends, creating enough depth for planting trees and other vegetation. Using greenery and trees to provide shade and better climatic conditions was an important part of the spacial strategy. The slopes which flank the stage are made of natural soil. They are all parts of a spacial scenario which culminates to an amphitheatre design.

KHAS AMFIBAHÇE is the product of a landscape and an architectural project which transformed the car parking area into a multipurpose garden providing an open space for the university. AMFIBAHÇE was developed and built following a concept competition, held among the students under the joint patronage of university’s presidency and the Dean of Faculty of Art and Design, Prof. Arzu Erdem.

Historical Seferikoz Cistern and other archeological remains are just below the ground therefore an important design parameter was to avoid digging for any foundation. The design team developed a spacial strategy that included raising the ground level at both ends of the area with a stage in the middle and two slopes rising to two metres at the highest ends, creating enough depth for planting trees and other vegetation. Using greenery and trees to provide shade and better climatic conditions was an important part of the spacial strategy. The slopes which flank the stage are made of natural soil. They are all parts of a spacial scenario which culminates to an amphitheatre design.

The two slopes facing each other hug the transformed space and encourage dialogue and social interaction. Users walk through, coincide or take a break. The design also creates a suitable space for the Spring Festival (KHAS FEST), concerts, theatre displays and other organisations. It is an open, multi-functional public space. The furniture on the slopes provide comfortable watching for any of these functions. At the lower end of the slopes – where they meet the stage, desks are provided for students to study in the open space. At the end of the garden there is a temporary structure that houses the studios for the dance and music clubs. This structure is part of the amphitheatre scenario. It opens to the stage where dance, music and theatre shows can be organised. Existing mechanical units around the perimeter of the car parking are are now concealed with mesh panels which support evergreen climber plants. KHAS AMFIBAHÇE a innovative landscape solution that transforms a carpark into a refreshing green space where people can meet, interact and relax while preserving the underground historical treasure.