SETBACK DISTANCES IN THE INTERACTION BETWEEN HISTORICAL AND NEW BUILDINGS IN HISTORICAL CITIES: OMM MUSEUM

Abstract

The design of new buildings in historical cities is an important area of debate and study in the field of architecture. The interaction between all buildings built during the historical process forms one of the fundamental foundations of this area of discussion. This interaction, in turn, produces unity between buildings. Newly designed buildings that fit into the historical fabric of a city become an integral part of that city. They also exert a direct influence on the totality. When speaking of the totality of a historical city, all currently existing buildings are included. In this context, it is critical that there be strong interaction and controlled cohesion between historical and new buildings. This unity can be achieved by studying the interaction between buildings from different thematic points of view. The hypothesis of this research is that the interaction between buildings, setback distances, the boundaries of building proximity, the distances between buildings, and their proximity are directly related. This research addresses the concept of setback distances, building proximity boundaries, which has received less attention in the existing literature. In this research, the Odunpazarı Modern Museum (OMM) in Eskişehir, Turkey, was investigated. The reasons for selecting this building include "demonstrating a unique perspective among examples of new structures designed in historical Turkish cities," "establishing distinct relationships and interactions with historical buildings located in the southeast and northwest in relation to the boundaries of building proximity and through various forms of interaction" and "the changes in interactions due to the changes in the boundaries of proximity resulting from the demolition of buildings over time". The research conducted highlights that setback distances play a direct role in the interaction between newly designed structures in historical cities and existing historical buildings. This interaction can lead to either positive or negative outcomes. Therefore, this context emphasizes the importance of accurately determining in advance the boundaries and spacing between buildings in areas where new architectural designs are to be located in order to avoid damage to the surrounding area and other structures. In order to ensure the preservation of the various values and allow controlled relationships that prevent their erosion, it is recommended that the relevant institutions carry out their work in accordance with these principles and take appropriate measures to create a well-structured interaction.