Turgutreis 1974 The Evolution of Families and Homes

Turgutreis 1974: The Evolution of Families and Homes

Turgutreis 1974, which examines the urbanization process of the Bodrum Peninsula in the late 20th century, is a pioneering study documenting the spatial and social transformation of the region. In 1974, when the research began, the total population of three small villages was 2,464, whereas today, in summer months, this number exceeds 250,000, transforming it into a major city.

The book focuses on the daily lives, livelihoods, and structures built with traditional construction methods by the villagers who lived a life based on agriculture without modern infrastructure. However, with the prominence of tourism and service sectors in the 2000s, these traditional houses have been transformed into apartments, and the original structures and environmental fabric have largely disappeared. This urbanization process, experienced by the Bodrum Peninsula at a similar time to the Mediterranean coasts, has led to the destruction of the local living culture.

The book details the lifestyles, economic activities, and cultural values of fifteen families living in the region. This process is meticulously documented with 140 original drawings and 250 photographs. Additionally, the historical development of the Bodrum Peninsula over two thousand years is examined in light of official records and archival documents and integrated into the text of the book.

A significant part of the study is a glossary of local terms that explains how traditional building elements and construction techniques have evolved into modern architecture.

The authors of the book are Richard Plunz, professor at Columbia University's School of Architecture, and Suha Özkan, "honorary professor" at METU Department of Architecture. Field research was carried out by an expert team from Columbia University and METU under the leadership of the authors.

Suha Özkan served as assistant secretary-general and secretary-general of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture organization between 1982 and 2006, and is currently the founder of the Bodrum Architecture Library. Richard Plunz has been a professor of architecture at Columbia University since 1974 and directs the Urban Design Lab.

This comprehensive study aims to shed light on Bodrum's past and architectural heritage, preserving the last traces of traditional life before they disappear.