inci SHOAINIA

advisor

Gazi University, Faculty of Architecture, Ankara

Turkey

İnci Shoainia is an architect and co-founder of Spika Architecture, based in Turkey. She holds a… more

The project presents a powerful approach by addressing the relationship between fashion and architecture not only formally but also as a cultural and spatial field of study. The way the concept of Black Dandyism is translated into architectural language has produced a design that is both original and intellectually profound. In particular, the interpretation of the concepts of identity, visibility, and spatial expression at the building scale provides the project with a strong theoretical foundation. The spatial arrangement created with movable curtain systems and textile logic allows the building to be read not as a static but as a living and transforming organism. The reinterpretation of the historical Hippodrome Theatre structure without completely erasing it also brings a contemporary and creative perspective to the concept of preservation. The semi-transparent surfaces used in the interior atmospheres, the dramatic use of light, and the fluid forms create a highly impressive spatial experience. In particular, the plan arrangement, which can transform between fashion show, performance, and public use scenarios, successfully demonstrates the flexibility of the project. The presentation language stands out as one of the project's strongest aspects; the graphic language, collages, typography, and visuals used strongly convey the atmosphere of the project. The combination of academic and personal/cultural narrative styles has transformed the presentation from a simple architectural thesis into a powerful narrative. Overall, the project is a highly successful and original work, both architecturally and artistically, thanks to its conceptual depth, spatial experience, and impressive presentation language.

• While the movable curtain and textile systems successfully enhance the spatial atmosphere, their relationship to the structural load-bearing capacity could be explored in more detail. Specifically, technical drawings could more clearly illustrate how large-scale fabric surfaces are hung, their maintenance processes, and their long-term durability.
• Although the concept of transformable space is strong in the project, the transitions between daily use scenarios and large-scale event scenarios could be studied in more detail. For example, stage setup, seating arrangement transformations, and backstage organization could be supported by more functional diagrams.
• While the interior atmospheres are quite impressive, the density of red textile surfaces in some areas reduces spatial readability. User orientation could be enhanced by using more controlled spaces or different material contrasts.
• Although the historical layers of the Hippodrome Theatre are conceptually addressed strongly, the boundary between the preserved-original sections of the existing structure and new interventions could be more clearly defined. This would make the architectural tension between old and new more legible.

13.05.2026