The Demirköy Foundry, dating back to the 17th century, is a first-degree archaeological site once used as an Ottoman iron casting facility. The project proposes the adaptive reuse and conservation of the site through a respectful architectural intervention that reactivates its historical and spatial identity.
Guided by urban and historical analyses, the design emphasizes the integration of nature and heritage, pedestrian circulation, and the reinterpretation of the foundry’s original function. Using data from the restitution studies, the proposal combines traditional masonry techniques with contemporary materials such as steel and perforated iron panels to ensure the clear distinction between old and new layers.
Key components—including the entrance hall, workshop paths, main water channel, and a 548 m² production-demonstration area—illustrate the foundry’s industrial past while inviting visitors to experience it within a controlled archaeological landscape. The project ultimately establishes a subtle dialogue between archaeology and modern design, preserving the site’s authenticity while giving it renewed public significance.