Info@architecturalrecoveryteam.com
Building a Prototype
Why a prototype?
We build a prototype first because:
- To test Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) as a new material in Turkiye.
To explore the self-sufficiency of the core unit: how far it can function independently from infrastructure while keeping costs manageable.
To assess transportation and logistics for the unit.
To examine the balance between innovation and local relevance, ensuring the design meets real community needs.
To explore ways to accelerate production for future deployment.
By building and testing a prototype, we can learn, adapt, and refine our approach before scaling solutions for long-term housing recovery.
The location for our first prototype is in Karsu Köy, Altinozu.
Core Unit building process
This unit was designed and built in the Netherlands with the support of generous companies and donors, who contributed both financially and through material donations. It was transported to Hatay in April 2025.
The unit was developed in the Netherlands to leverage Dutch construction techniques, innovation, and expertise, while closely monitoring quality throughout the process. Looking ahead, we are exploring opportunities to produce and adapt similar units in Turkey, combining local resources with international knowledge for future recovery efforts.
Scroll through our timeline to find out more about our building process!
Production CLT
In a factory the CLT panels are made. Through the flexible material, the seismic resistance of the core unit is ensured, being the "safe" room of the house.
Thanks to the visit at our main sponsors factory, the DERIX Group, we could see how our CLT plates were made within a couple of hours.
Assembly CLT
Assembly of CLT Panels, and knowledge about the material, provided by DERIX-Gruppe [Johan-Paul Borreman], were expertly assembled by Nido Projecten [Clemens van Andel], using the earthquake-resilient connections provided by Rothoblaas [Ricardo Oliveira].
Electricity, plumbing and solar panels
Our friends at Erol Electric and Artec ensured that the electrical systems were integrated. The solar panel system has also been placed by VolopZon, and our panels are ready to be connected on-site by Erol Dönmez. Our core unit will take advantage of the long sunny days of Hatay to generate all of its electricity!
Bathroom installations
Plumbing Installation : With support from Koru Rijmond and Base Rotterdam Design, the plumbing works were efficiently installed.
Waterproofing: Maarten de Monchy from wedi GmbH joined us to assist with waterproofing using wedi panels, creating a waterproof bathroom.
Bathroom finishing and Kitchen placing
Our circular and fully clickable modular steel-frame kitchen was installed by Chainable - B Corp™! Made with panels from 90% reused wood, no trees were cut down for our kitchen—while Chainable is planting 36 trees for us!
Finishing touches
For the finishing touches, our bathroom tiles and sanitary ware have been expertly installed by KoruRijnmond. The last afternoon, we were together with Atelier Mokum, to complete the last touches, painting, and covering the unit to make it ready for transport!
Transport to site
Thanks to a carefully coordinated logistics process, by MIDLOG BV, the Core Unit has been transported to the village of Karsu, without any damage. The customs clearance proceeded smoothly, and even the more fragile components—such as the tiles—remained completely intact during transport.
Room Unit Building Process
Once on site, the core unit is placed on the foundation, after which the wooden timber structure is added and connected to the core. The elements are then secured and finished, forming a complete home.
The core unit remains standard across all houses, while the room unit is flexible and adaptable to the needs of each family and location
Structural Framing & Primary Installation
Construction of the timber load-bearing structure, floor and roof beams, with initial placement of fixed elements.
Enclosure & Interior Build-Out
Installation of roof and wall sheathing, completion of structural enclosure, and integration of interior systems and built-in elements.
Interior Finishing & Spatial Completion
Finished interior surfaces, services concealed, circulation defined, and the house ready for occupation.
Future Steps
We are actively exploring ways to grow and expand our project through a two-step approach. First, we continue to develop our knowledge platform while refining and optimizing our design. Second, we are conducting field research to better understand ongoing housing needs and to explore how our construction approach can be scaled and expanded to reach more villages in Hatay.
Interested in helping us? Get in touch!