An investigation of the formal structre and socio-cultural factors influencing form in traditional Erzurum houses

Erzurum houses represent a significant example of traditional Turkish dwellings, distinguished by their architectural and socio-cultural dimensions. The design of these structures has evolved in response to the harsh climatic conditions of the region, its topographical features, and the functional requirements of daily life. As products of a deeply entrenched cultural heritage, Erzurum houses transcend their physical existence to serve as tangible manifestations of the community's lifestyle, traditions, and social values. This study undertakes an analysis of the formal characteristics of Erzurum houses and examines the socio-cultural factors that have influenced their development. The primary objective is to elucidate the role and cultural significance of Erzurum houses within the broader context of traditional Turkish architecture. From this perspective, the study positions these houses not merely as architectural artifacts but as physical embodiments of societal and cultural dynamics. The research thus emphasizes the interplay between environmental factors, social dynamics, and architectural forms. The methodological approach integrates historical and spatial analyses with the review of written sources and direct on-site observations, adopting an interdisciplinary framework. The data collected are employed to interpret the distinctive identity of Erzurum houses and to situate this identity within a larger historical and cultural context. Erzurum houses are more than structures that reflect the historical and cultural legacy of the city; they are also material archives of social memory. Nevertheless, these buildings face significant threats due to urbanization, functional obsolescence, and environmental challenges. The preservation of this architectural heritage is imperative for sustaining the cultural values that constitute Erzurum's identity. Such efforts will ensure the transmission of these values to future generations, thereby safeguarding the city's cultural richness and historical continuity.