When we look at the epidemics the world has experienced so far and the developments afterwards, we can easily say that the Covid-19 process has started a new era. Nevertheless, needs-oriented design principles will always be up to date.The first step to be taken with this period will definitely be to improve the cleaning and hygiene conditions. It is now a necessity to alleviate urban densities and to re-discuss and reorganize public spaces. It is not difficult to see that the efforts will be increased to pedestrianize some streets and avenues. Cities will need serious ecological corridors more than ever. In addition, as cities will need areas such as temporary housing and health centers, this will become an inevitable subject of master plans. The need for more flexible solutions will increase."Smartcity" designs will stand out more and people act with data. Data will be an important tool in dealing with epidemics. Devices to be placed in the sewer or in some parts of the city will provide us with a map of the places where viruses are housed. We will witness an increase in interdisciplinary works in the new period. Virologists and public health officials will play an active role in the project processes.
Global and rapidly spreading COVID-19 epidemic somehow affected everyone on the world. The time we spent during lockdown at home led to rethinking and changing our priorities. The importance of good design and future planning became clear as our homes became a safe haven amid the crisis. Architects, engineers, developers and other key players in the real estate industry now need to define the new normal dictated by COVID-19 and develop projects accordingly. After this experience, we can be sure that lifestyles will never be the same, and in this process of what is called the “new normal”, we must design our buildings taking into account possible future epidemics. As designers, we are already thinking about epidemic prevention strategies. Sterilization areas, exercise areas and naturally ventilated areas are added to housing projects in the light of recent developments.
As can be seen, the dialogue of residential and office buildings with nature and social life has gained more importance. From this point of view, we continue to make the sun a part of our projects and attach importance to natural ventilation principles, as we have done so far. We are trying to contribute to the world of architecture and the life that awaits us after the pandemic, with our designs integrated with qualified, airy, open and semi-open spaces. Especially in the mixed-use projects we carry out in Pendik and Piyalepaşa districts, the relationship between open balconies, semi-closed balconies and living spaces with air and natural light extends the duration of stay at home and provides opportunities for both social and private spaces.
As a result, architecture is a constantly evolving industry that can adapt to the needs of the time. The COVID-19 pandemic era will surely leave its mark on the design and real estate industry. Hopefully, these measures will help prevent future epidemics from happening and create a more sensitive society.