After the earthquake

Following the devastating earthquake in February 2023, Türkiye Design Council (TDC) has started the long-term process of revitalising the historic province of Hatay, situated in south-east Türkiye. It has convened 13 design practices to create a sustainable vision for the area with improved climate resilience, connectivity and social and environmental wellbeing, as well as preserving its 2,300-year-old cultural heritage and identity.

Bünyamin Derman of DB Architecture, involved in the process, said: “Hatay has been destroyed by major earthquakes at least seven times in history – some experts suggest as many as 33. In February 2023, 80% of the city was devastated. Its archaeological and religious mosaic features require special urban planning, which needs to be combined with the creation of self-sufficient, resilient structures.”

TDC aims to create a new global approach to rebuilding cities after natural disasters that brings together world experts while giving the local community a voice in their city’s recovery. It is hoped Hatay will become a global exemplar for earthquake recovery.