Transformation of Secondary Residences into Primary Residences After the Earthquake and Pandemic Process: Dörtyol Summer Houses

Objective: In the post-pandemic period in Turkey, the use of secondary housing as permanent housing is common. While Dörtyol summer residences, which constitute the study area, were used only in summer or on weekends until 2020, their usage pattern changed after the pandemic process and the Pazarcık and Hatay earthquakes, and they started to be used as permanent residences. Theoretical Framework: The fact that the property owners, who preferred to live in their summer residences instead of their houses in the city center due to the lower risk of disease and isolated socialization during the pandemic process, continued to use this place despite the secondary disaster risk after the 2023 Pazarcık and Hatay earthquakes raised a question mark. The use of houses that were previously used only in the summer months also in the winter months has necessitated some changes in the houses. In this context, the article traces the reasons for the use of secondary dwellings as primary dwellings in the post-earthquake period and the spatial change in the dwellings. Method: In the study, qualitative and quantitative data techniques were used together to identify the decisions affecting spatial transformation. A survey of 100 respondents was supplemented with oral interviews. Results and Discussion: As a result, data were obtained on the reasons why the participants prefer secondary housing, the problems they experience, daily life practices, neighborhood relations, and furniture features. Originality/Value: The study supports transforming the post-earthquake reconstruction process into an opportunity and envisioning architectural projects that adopt sustainability principles.