Atmospheric Encounters Shaping the In-Between

Irmak Okumus

Summary
Final work

Hi, I'm Irmak, an architectural assistant with over two years of experience in residential, cultural, and urban projects. Being passionate about the spatial aspects of design prompted me to deepen my knowledge and understanding through this MA course.

My work focuses on designing atmospheres that balance fine detailing with a clear tectonic expression, embodying climate-based natural encounters while fostering a strong connection between people and place. By embracing a site's unique qualities —its natural elements, cultural memory, and present circumstances— I aim to design spaces that take root in their locale and elevate human interaction.

Hi, I'm Irmak, an architectural assistant with over two years of experience in residential, cultu...

CollegeCamberwell College of Arts
CourseMA Interior And Spatial Design
Graduation year2024

As humans, we spend most of our time indoors. Yet, there is something about the outdoors that draws us in and that indoors lack to provide: the living nature and the ever-changing effects of weather conditions creating rich, multi-sensory experiences:

The warmth of sunlight, the sound and touch of raindrops, the sensation of wind, etc. The ephemeral nature of these experiences providing instant multi-sensory stimuli; contributes to shape our perception of a space and influences our behavior.

The absence of such encounters indoors has led me to a concern about designing an in-between situation: one that accommodates and manifests atmospheric moments in a particular way without being fully exposed. I believe, even evoking the curiosity of “Oh, it’s raining cats and dogs; I wonder what it’s like to be there” is a step forward towards connecting back with the atmosphere.