Spatial Organization of Temporary Living Units: Discovering Typological Differences Through the Case of the Hatay Earthquake

SPACE International Conference, London, UK, July 11–12, 2024.

Keywords: Post-disaster settlements, Temporary living units, Turkey earthquake, Hatay earthquake.

Following disasters that cause lasting damage, there is a need for temporary living spaces to accommodate survivors. In these temporary living settlements, formed by the assembly of multiple individual housing units, it is expected that not only basic shelter needs but also various spatial requirements such as communal kitchens, sanitation, education, and social areas will be addressed. To provide the most suitable living conditions for disaster survivors, the planning and design processes at both the settlement and unit scales must be comprehensively considered, carefully organized, and supported with rational solutions.

To analyze the planning, establishment, and operational phases of temporary living centers in Turkey, a field study was conducted in Hatay, a region heavily affected by the February 6, 2023, Türkiye earthquakes. This study aims to conduct a typological analysis of different living centers established in the area, to explore their potentials and challenges, and to generate a knowledge base that can be utilized in future disaster scenarios. For this purpose, three living centers with different capacities and socio-economic profiles were selected for examination. Various methods, such as brief interviews with local stakeholders, non-governmental organizations, and survivors; on-site observations; and the collection of photographic and video documentation, were employed.

These centers were analyzed in detail through multiple scales, including site selection, design and planning decisions, transportation and installation of units, post-installation placement and management systems, and the everyday life scenarios of the residents. The analyses were carried out at both the container settlement and individual container unit levels, identifying issues such as insufficient social spaces, vulnerability to extreme weather conditions, and lack of privacy and personal space. Based on these findings, several improvement suggestions are presented to enhance the suitability of living units and settlements for the needs of their users.

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