Spatial Response to Post-Earthquake Demands: METU Urgent Design Studio

The February 2023 earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş had a profound impact, affecting ten provinces in the region and resulting in numerous casualties and significant property loss. Producing designs that cater to the urgent needs of the affected population and presenting alternative spatial solution proposals has become crucial in reducing the adverse effects during the post-disaster phase. In this context, the Urgent Design Studio (UDS), initiated by students and academics at Middle East Technical University (METU), aims to address the primary and temporary spatial needs in earthquake-stricken areas, develop alternative design proposals that are livable, sustainable, and reproducible, and utilize alternative materials in the process. UDS projects, starting with the design of interior dividers to enhance the efficiency and usability of container and tent spaces in the earthquake zone, have progressed to include designs for animal shelters, tent accommodations, toilet and shower facilities, as well as wooden housing projects. One of these projects, the Paper Log House produced in collaboration with "Shigeru Ban Architects / Voluntary Architects’ Network," aims to provide a rapid and effective solution to the urgent housing needs in earthquake-affected areas. Subsequently, the efforts of the Urgent Design Studio (UDS) continued with the Wooden Housing Unit, designed by students and collectively executed by volunteers from the METU Faculty of Architecture. This paper aims to provide a knowledge-based transfer of significant experiences related to UDS’s ongoing activities since February and to foster a supportive environment for solidarity. The goal is to continue working towards better solutions for post-disaster needs.