Elvan Zeynep Gürbüztürk
Since the beginning of my studies at IE University, I’ve been lucky enough to explore many architectural sites and engage in discussions with artists and architects. These experiences have given me a profound understanding of modern-day living, especially in terms of sustainability. My current project revolves around the integration of a research and development network into the blueprint scale of a smart district.
“The Netherlands has been the hotspot for sustainable architecture. To see it in person has been a very eye-opening experience.”
Pioneering sustainable design
In IE University’s Master in Architecture program, students like Elvan Zeynep Gürbüztürk are at the forefront of pioneering innovative and sustainable design solutions that are shaping our future cities. Elvan began her academic journey by exploring diverse architectural sites and engaging in discussions with artists and architects. These experiences ignited her passion for sustainable architecture while deepening her understanding of modern living and its intricate connection with the environment.
As part of their studies, Master in Architecture students have the opportunity to attend a hands-on workshop with UNStudio in the Netherlands. There, they work under the guidance of seasoned professionals to develop their thesis projects. Elvan described the experience as eye-opening: “I think it truly gave us insight into what it means to live in the modern age of sustainability. We always talk about sustainable living, but we don't truly see it in architecture form.”
Inspired by the innovative landscape of the Netherlands, Elvan has contributed to projects demonstrating the real-world impacts of sustainable living on architectural design. The experience she gained with UNStudio served as a driving force behind her thesis project, which revolves around the integration of a research and development network into smart district master plans.
By conducting direct testing and implementation within the community, she is exploring the transformative potential of research in driving innovation, while also promoting knowledge exchange among students. She explains, “When we talk about sustainability, I feel that we tend to miss the aspect of continuous development. All these technologies that we're talking about implementing into our lives need to come from some sort of research.” Her approach aims to bridge the gaps between theory and implementation.
“I’m really trying to take architecture through the process of research to innovation.”
The Master in Architecture program at IE University has equipped Elvan with the tools she needs to reach her goals. Through our rigorous and hands-on curriculum, students not only acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve professional licensure in Spain and the European Union but also hone their understanding of entrepreneurship and sustainability.
Students like Elvan develop these skills through the intensive architectural design and building construction studio module, where they explore sustainable technologies and architectural strategies. Additionally, the Design Management Module teaches the business skills to navigate architecture and entrepreneurship, paving the way for leadership roles in the architectural profession and beyond. Students of the program enjoy the unique academic environment at IE Tower, a prime example of sustainable architectural innovation in the heart of Madrid.
As Elvan progresses through her academic journey at IE University, she’s not just preparing to join the architectural profession, she’s poised to lead from the onset. With access to a vast international network, coupled with smaller class sizes and innovative teaching methodologies, the excellence of IE University’s Master in Architecture program prepares talented professionals like Elvan for a bright future.
