A (Forgotten) Vernacular From Anatolian Villages: Guestrooms in Sivas/Turkey

Abstract

This study aims to introduce a deep-rooted and essential component of authentic folk architecture typology in Anatolia, namely guestrooms/village rooms. The main aim of the study is to analyse traditional lifestyle and architectural structures under the effect of traditional rural lifestyle over a particular sampling area. The social functions of these buildings are limited not merely to housing guests, but also involve rather complex and joint spatial functions, such as providing room for public ceremonies, including weddings and funerals. However, it has been proven during the study process that these buildings, which are on the verge of disappearance, are generally not used for their intended purpose. It is also argued that although the social functions of these buildings are similar, they have their peculiarities in spatial arrangement. To this end, the authors undertook a detailed study of the researches concerning traditional Turkish houses and evaluated, both synchronically and diachronically, the architectural relationship and interactions of the sampled guestroom with the neighbouring dwelling culture. Moreover, other than the literature review, in situ research was conducted at the sample sites in call]. village, Sivas province, and the social facilities and spatial features of these buildings were analysed. Field studies, interview and observation methods were used during the research. Furthermore, the plan and front elevation reliefs of one of the studied buildings were drawn. The similarities of the sitting plan and spatial structure, both in function and organisation, with divanhane (audience/council hall) and basoda (head room) of Anatolian Turkish houses were discussed over the deductions related to the spatial plan that was created using the aforementioned reliefs. Also, the possible extensions of Central Asian spatial tradition were interrogated and joint architectural details of Turkic spaces of entertainment and housing guests were scrutinised. Moreover, typological concordances were investigated after architectural and decorative interactions had been determined. In short, the cultural and spatial components of guesthouses were studied with a view to contribute to local and international sustainability of such buildings, which symbolise the productivity of rural lifestyle, to provide room for these in the architectural literature.