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Building Code Challenging the Ethics Behind Adobe Architecture in North Cyprus

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Abstract

Adobe masonry is part of the vernacular architecture of Cyprus. Thus, it is possible to use this technology in a meaningful way on the island. On the other hand, although adobe architecture is more sustainable in comparison to other building technologies, the use of it is diminishing in North Cyprus. The application of Turkish building code in the north of the island has created complications in respect of the use of adobe masonry, because this building code demands that reinforced concrete vertical tie-beams are used together with adobe masonry. The use of reinforced concrete elements together with adobe masonry causes problems in relation to the climatic response of the building as well as causing other technical and aesthetic problems. This situation makes the design of adobe masonry complicated and various types of ethical problems also emerge. The objective of this article is to analyse the ethical problems which arise as a consequence of the restrictive character of the building code, by analysing two case studies and conducting an interview with an architect who was involved with the use of adobe masonry in North Cyprus. According to the results of this article there are ethical problems at various levels in the design of both case studies. These problems are connected to the responsibilities of architects in respect of the social benefit, material production, aesthetics and affordability of the architecture as well as presenting distrustful behaviour where the obligations of architects to their clients is concerned.

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Notes

  1. Cyprus is the third largest island in the east of the Mediterranean Sea. It was divided into north and south sectors in 1974 and is mainly inhabited by Turks in the northern sector and Greeks in the southern sector.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Architecture, Eastern Mediterranean University, Via Mersin 10, Room: 118, Magusa, Kibris, Turkey

    Yonca Hurol & Öznem Şahali

  2. Department of Architecture, Adana Science and Technology University, Seyhan-Adana, Turkey

    Hülya Yüceer

Authors
  1. Yonca Hurol
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  2. Hülya Yüceer
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  3. Öznem Şahali
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Correspondence to Yonca Hurol.

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Hurol, Y., Yüceer, H. & Şahali, Ö. Building Code Challenging the Ethics Behind Adobe Architecture in North Cyprus. Sci Eng Ethics 21, 381–399 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-014-9533-0

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