Project Name: Korean War Memorial Area and Visitor Center Architectural Design Competition

Employer: Lüleburgaz Municipality

Location, Date: Kırklareli, Turkey, 2019

Situation: Concept project

Program: Landscape, Monument, Iconic Structure, Exhibition Space, Gallery

Anı Kore

Competition Project

The project is designed as a memorial site to commemorate and honor the bravery and sacrifices of Turkish soldiers during the Korean War. The project site is located between Lüleburgaz city center and the European Highway, with the main entrance accessible via Turgut Bey Street. The design encompasses two distinct architectural elements: the "Wall" and a transparent facade.

The "Wall" creates a dramatic and symbolic representation of the war. It integrates with the "Memorial Path," which leads towards the direction of the Lüleburgaz River. Upon passing through the wall, visitors are directed towards the memorial area, symbolizing the valor and sacrifices of Turkish soldiers, as well as the eternal hope and aspiration for peace. As visitors progress through the memorial path, crossing the "Memorial Bridge," they immerse themselves in the past sacrifices and experience a sense of hope for the future.

The "War Story" route narrates the four significant battles where Turkish troops played a pivotal role in the Korean War. This part includes open exhibition spaces, film projections, engravings, drawings, and photographs to portray the historical significance and impact of the war. Light filtering through gaps in the ground reminds visitors of the perpetual presence of hope and peace. The walls along this route bear the names of soldiers who participated in the war, creating a powerful atmosphere.

The "Social Path and Visitor Center" area is enclosed by a transparent facade, which interacts with the surrounding environment. It accommodates exhibition spaces, a coffee and tea lounge, social areas, and a library, all organized along the social axis. The project identity is emphasized through logo design, font selection, a dedicated mobile application, and custom-designed urban furniture.

The primary aim of the project is to understand the sorrow, sacrifices, and losses brought by war while internalizing the past and elevating hope for a peaceful future. The memorial spaces create a spiritual and humanistic atmosphere, uniting the past and the future to provide visitors with a profound experience. The design of the project truly honors the heroes of the war and instills a sense of hope and meaningful emotion within its visitors.