Malatya Çırmıktı & Gündüzbey Master Plan

Urban Context and Geographical Setting

The project site is located in Yeşilyurt, one of Malatya’s central districts. Surrounded by fertile plains in the south and mountain ranges in the north, the region has historically been a key cultural and agricultural center. Thanks to the irrigation potential of the Euphrates River, fruit production, particularly apricots and cherries, has played a vital role in shaping Yeşilyurt’s economy and identity.

Çırmıktı Phase (Stages 1-5)

Çırmıktı preserves its authentic character with traditional civil architecture. Typical Malatya houses are built on stone foundations with adobe walls, pitched roofs, and two-story configurations. Within the project:

• Stages 1-2: The historic core, including Çırmıktı houses and the town square, is preserved with registered structures. The square, along with the clock tower and commercial axes, will be pedestrianized to enhance urban interaction.
• Stages 3-4-5: Development areas introduce low-rise, detached, garden houses that respect the historical fabric while offering new residential opportunities.

Proposed Housing Types:

1. Detached houses – 1-2 stories, garden-based, using natural materials.
2. Adapted traditional houses – repurposed for commercial or accommodation uses.
3. New residential units – 2-3 stories, with balconies, terraces, and a strong emphasis on natural materials.

Gündüzbey Phase (Stages 1-5)

Located in the south of Yeşilyurt, Gündüzbey features fertile agricultural lands and a relatively flat topography. The Gündüzbey Canal, running through the settlement, shapes both its historical identity and public life. Within the project:

• Stages 1-2: The historic area includes traditional houses and canal-side arrangements. Pedestrianization and recreational spaces along the canal will foster social life.
• Stages 3-4-5: New development areas are planned as low-rise, detached, garden-oriented residential zones, maintaining harmony with the local civil architecture.

Proposed Housing Types:

1. Detached housing – 1-2 stories, gardens, and traditional materials.
2. New housing units – 2-3 stories, balconies, and terraces.
3. Adapted registered houses – transformed into commercial or accommodation functions.

Conclusion

The Malatya Yeşilyurt Urban Design Project seeks to preserve the cultural heritage of Çırmıktı and Gündüzbey while providing new residential opportunities with contextual sensitivity. By drawing inspiration from the traditional Malatya house typologies, the project integrates historical continuity with modern living standards.