An Ecological Hospitality Landscape Shaped by the Memory of the Site
Akra Didim is a 340,000 m² landscape-led hospitality complex located within Baransel Beach Cove on the Didim coastline in Aydın, Türkiye. Extending along approximately 1,050 metres of shoreline and across nearly 34 metres of elevation change, the project brings together 279 hotel rooms, 50 adults-only villas, and 33 family villas within a distinctive coastal geography.
The design process began by reading the site rather than imposing a new order upon it. Existing karst rock formations, natural topography, and established maquis vegetation formed the primary framework for both architectural and landscape decisions. Landscape was conceived not as residual space surrounding the buildings, but as the ecological system organizing the entire complex.

During construction, 4,303 native plants were carefully removed, preserved in temporary nursery areas, and later reintroduced into the landscape. Excavated soil and stone were retained and reused within the project area, eliminating the need for imported fill material. This strategy preserved the existing soil seed bank and supported the seasonal regeneration of vegetation. Located along the western and southwestern edges of the family villas, the “In Place” zone makes this process visible within the completed landscape.
The new planting design extends the site’s existing ecology through a Mediterranean xerophytic palette adapted to local climatic conditions. Olea europaea establishes the dominant tree character, while Cupressus sempervirens ‘Pyramidalis’ introduces strong vertical accents. Around the pool areas, Stipa and Leymus species form a light, permeable layer animated by the wind. Dark green, grey-green, and bluish foliage is combined with dry yellow grasses, earth tones, and restrained colour accents to create a layered landscape atmosphere.
Roof surfaces planted with Carpobrotus acinaciformis form continuous ecological covers, allowing the architectural volumes to merge visually with the surrounding landscape. Across the project, approximately 20,000 m² of multifunctional lawn is planted with drought-tolerant Zoysia species, while drip irrigation reduces water consumption and surface loss.

Circulation was developed in close alignment with the natural topography. A network of ramps, stairways, and alternative routes connects the changing levels of the site while allowing visitors to experience the landscape from different directions. The primary circulation axis follows the area in which the topographical character is most legible, transforming movement through the complex into a direct experience of the terrain.
The same approach continues at Salkım Restaurant, which is raised above the sloping terrain on a pilotis system. Elevating the structure reduces its visual impact while allowing the natural maquis vegetation to continue beneath it. The restaurant’s three-part architectural composition is organized around an existing olive tree, transforming it into the central spatial reference of the building.
The project’s ecological approach extends beyond vegetation. Existing bird habitats were preserved, while the natural soundscape shaped by wind, planting, and wildlife was maintained as part of the site experience. Reused natural stone elements also contribute to the formation of microhabitats throughout the complex.

At Akra Didim, landscape is not treated as a background to architecture, but as the primary design medium bringing together existing vegetation, topography, water management, circulation, and user experience. Rather than reconstructing an image of nature, the project establishes a living hospitality landscape that preserves, reinforces, and makes visible the ecological systems already present within the site.