AQUA IZMIR I WATER SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL CENTRE ON THE EDGE OF THE CITY

Aqua Izmir I water sports and recreational centre on the edge of the city

In the scope of this project, the idea is to switch figure and ground relationship established on the solid-void map and see water as a functional and usable element. In this regard, usability of water is increased by the water sport activities indicated as sailing, swimming, rafting, canoe and windsurf. In the current waterfront, port area acts as a boundary between city and water also in-between two existing waterfronts. To revitalize the Izmir’s waterfront, taking the strong art installations at the back part of city, Darağacı area, recreational centres are created considering art as main activity. The land between water and city is used as an interface and in-between element to enrich the connections and weaken the boundaries once created by the port. Landscape is arranged in a way that allows citizens to come in certain junction points that has a potential by holding dense population. The roads coming from city arrange in a way that some can reach the waterfront, and some can go beyond to sea by creating decks which were lack at the current situation. Moreover, this deck installation acts as a connecting element by creating a continuous flow in the waterfront. Overall, the site and the programme are formed to revitalize waterfront, connect two existing waterfronts, increase the water usability and allow citizens to use water and waterfront. Instead of the image created on water by heavy and big transport ships, a new image is maintained by light and fresh sailboats dancing. The land is torn apart at some parts to create areas that are filled with water to hold some programme elements. Moreover, the top cover that surrounds the area is made according to fresh and light design idea that is maintained throughout the waterfront.