Sonsuz Şükran Village in Konya’s Hüyük District Draws Attention with Its New-Design Adobe Houses

Established nine years ago by a group of artists in Hüyük, Konya, Sonsuz Şükran Village continues to attract growing interest thanks to its adobe houses built entirely from natural materials. The village, featuring duplex and single-storey homes constructed using earth, straw and wood, has become a popular destination for those seeking refuge from crowded urban life.

Located near Lake Beyşehir, all houses in the village are built following traditional methods and inspired by Seljuk architectural elements, including flat roofs commonly seen in Anatolian villages. With its authentic character, cultural festivals and natural atmosphere, the village serves as a peaceful escape for many city dwellers.

A Subject of Academic Research

The village has also become a research focus for graduate and doctoral students. Tired of the overwhelming concrete structures in big cities, a group of artists settled in the village to build a life in harmony with nature. The adobe structures—some single-storey, some duplex, some with bay windows—stand as strong alternatives to modern concrete housing.

A Popular Spot for Wedding Photography

In recent years, newly married couples have increasingly chosen the village for wedding photoshoots. The authentic streets, earth-toned houses and natural scenery create an attractive backdrop for photographers and visitors.

“I Truly Feel Alive Here”

Residents describe adobe homes as “the most nature-friendly structures.” These earthen houses act as natural climate regulators, staying cool in summer and warm in winter. Families typically move to the village in March or April and return to the city in autumn. Many say they prefer adobe homes for their health benefits and sense of inner peace.

“We Should Return to Earth Houses”

Artists involved in the project for nearly eight years note that adobe structures have become an essential part of their lives. They believe society should reconsider these environmentally friendly homes for future living.

“Mass Housing Should Be Built Horizontally”

For thousands of years, earth houses were an essential part of life in Anatolia. Today, as many countries shift from vertical to horizontal urban planning, experts suggest that adobe structures could even be incorporated into modern mass housing projects.

Source: AA