Architects in Turkey mark World Architecture Day with calls for housing rights

In observance of World Architecture Day, architects in Balıkesir and Konya held events focusing on the social responsibilities of the profession.

In Balıkesir, the TMMOB Chamber of Architects Balıkesir Branch emphasized the theme ‘Housing is a Human Right. Build It.’ Osman Zeki Şahin, Branch President, highlighted the growing gap between housing costs and citizen incomes. He argued that housing should not be treated merely as an investment tool and called for urban transformation policies that prioritize ‘in-place living’ to preserve neighborhood ties and social equality.

In Konya, the 9th Konya Architecture Festival commenced with the opening of the Sille Mimar Evi, a new social facility designed for architects, students, and citizens to exchange ideas. Arif Demir, Konya Branch President of the Chamber of Architects, stated the festival’s theme is ‘Architecture and Humanity.’ He noted the importance of using architectural expertise to address global issues, including climate change and the reconstruction of Gaza.