belgin koz transforms 120-year-old residence into boutique hotel

belgin koz transforms 120-year-old residence into boutique hotel
photo © tunc suerdas
all images courtesy of belgin koz architects

created by dutch architects during the russian invasion period in kars, turkey, the ramshackle building of belgin koz‘s latest endeavor was not maintained or repaired following its use as a residence. later, however, under the circumstances that its external shell be preserved and only the indoor functions are changed, the structure has become a boutique hotel.

the corner of the site
photo © tunc suerdas

‘snow’, ‘white’, ‘calm’ and ‘warm’ were the concept keywords while redesigning this 120-year-old construct. the combination of wood and stone on the façade continues indoors, while the roughness of the rocks softened with the warmth of the timber outdoors. the primary aim was not to exaggerate, but to provide a serene and calmly balanced environment. ‘using the northern european architecture, which has influenced the kars civil architecture, brought the new design closer to the ordinal design, preserving its aura,’ says belgin koz.

exterior corridor on the second floor
photo © tunc suerdas

the project has created a vast impression in the neighborhood with its eight rooms and restaurant. as a result of the renovation, it has raised the small community’s awareness on the worthiness of their old architecture, which has led the townspeople to protect and restore the other existing works.

hotel lounge area
photo © tunc suerdas

interior details
photo © tunc suerdas

entrance
photo © tunc suerdas

dining room
photo © tunc suerdas

plan
photo © tunc suerdas

elevation
photo © tunc suerdas

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