Temasehir: A Sales Center Inspired by Mevlana

Uniting Tradition and Modernity in Konya

Located in Konya, the birthplace of Mevlana, the Temasehir Sales Center draws inspiration from the renowned scholar's philosophy and masterpieces. The design team, led by Seda Dundar, incorporated elements from the Whirling Derwishes' figures and Mevlana's teachings into every aspect of the project. The primary colors, derived from the Whirling Derwishes' clothes, are complemented by a golden hue symbolizing light.

The Sales Center features several unique properties that set it apart from other sales offices. The panels above the kiosk transform into a light, embodying Mevlana's call for unity: "Come, come, whoever you are." The seats in the waiting area showcase transparency, representing inner and outer integrity, while the lighting creates an uplifting ambiance. The sales department's individual boxes, designed with the spiral form of the Whirling Derwishes' gowns, provide an exclusive and privileged experience for customers. The centerpiece of the project is a mockup illuminated with a new interpretation of light.

The realization of the design involved the use of wooden panels with a lacquer finish on the surfaces. The floors feature a combination of dark and light-colored marble sourced from local mines, while areas with acoustic requirements are adorned with a mix of marble and carpet. Metal-framed glass separators serve as dividers and doors, and wall papers in the hallway create a sense of motion. The sales department's boxes are enriched with golden brass bars, representing the light that Mevlana sought to spread.

Spanning 820 square meters, the Temasehir Sales Center caters to real estate sales and includes a sales office and other amenities. The project was completed between December 2015 and February 2016 in Konya, Turkey. The design team, consisting of Seda Dundar, Merve Selin Dayi, Esmahan Betul Sahin, Harun Ayaydin, and Mustafa Enes Cicekci, worked diligently to create a space that seamlessly integrates the region's culture and traditions with modern functionality.

The design process involved extensive research into Konya's values and heritage. The team immersed themselves in Mevlana's philosophy and masterpieces, as well as the performances of the Whirling Derwishes, to ensure an authentic interpretation in their design. Overcoming the challenge of merging Mevlana's philosophy with the practical requirements of a sales office, the team successfully transformed solid objects into dynamic elements while maintaining their essence.

The Temasehir Sales Center tells stories to visitors from their inner world, just as Mevlana's Mesnevi begins with the line "Listen from Ney, because it tells stories." The kiosk in the entrance serves as an empty deep space, inviting visitors to embark on a journey of discovery. The panels above the kiosk unite to form a light, echoing Mevlana's desire for unity. In the waiting area, transparent seats symbolize inner and outer integrity, while the lighting evokes a sense of ascension. The individual sales boxes provide a sense of privilege and exclusivity for customers.

The Temasehir Sales Center, designed by Seda Dundar, received the Bronze A' Design Award in 2016 in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award recognizes the project's outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and incorporation of best practices in art, science, design, and technology. The Temasehir Sales Center exemplifies the fusion of tradition and innovation, contributing to the improvement of quality of life and making the world a better place.