We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer S.A.I.T. Studio about their original and creative Residential Complex design work. S.A.I.T. Studio is an award-winning architectural designer, that makes our world a better place with their original residential complex works.
S.A.I.T. Studio ("SS") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Royal Residential Complex. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
SS : The main idea behind Royal Residential Complex was to create a luxurious and sustainable living environment that enhances quality of life. We wanted to design a residential community that balances privacy and social interaction, while offering residents direct access to nature, wellness features, and advanced smart technologies. The project draws inspiration from the rich historical and architectural heritage of Erdemli, Mersin, particularly the ancient civilizations of the Hittites, Romans, and Byzantines. Elements such as arches and columns reflect this legacy while being reinterpreted through a modern architectural language. At its core, the design aims to blend contemporary living with natural beauty, cultural depth, and sustainable innovation to provide an elevated residential experience.
SS : Our main focus was to design a residential complex that offers a distinctive balance between modern luxury, cultural identity, and sustainable living. We wanted to create an environment where residents feel connected to both the history of the place and the comforts of contemporary life. We aimed to achieve a seamless integration of architecture, landscape, and community spaces. Key goals included maximizing sea views, promoting well-being through green spaces and wellness amenities, and incorporating smart technologies that enhance daily living. Ultimately, we wanted to provide residents with a lifestyle that is enriching, healthy, and harmonious with the local environment, setting a new standard for residential developments in the region.
SS : Our primary goal is to successfully complete the construction of Royal Residential Complex and deliver a high-quality living environment that fully reflects the original design vision. Beyond this, we plan to use the experience and insights gained from this project to inform future residential developments in the region and beyond. The design principles established in Royal, especially the integration of cultural identity, smart technologies, and sustainable living, will continue to shape our upcoming projects. We also hope that the recognition from the A’ Design Award will inspire greater interest in creating thoughtful, high-quality architecture in emerging urban areas like Erdemli, helping to raise the overall standard of design in the community.
SS : The design phase for Royal Residential Complex began in early 2024. Given the scale and complexity of the project, the design process extended over several months. During this period, we conducted detailed site analysis, developed architectural and interior concepts, coordinated with engineers and consultants, and refined the design through continuous feedback from the client. The process also involved integrating advanced technologies and ensuring that every design element aligned with both the historical context of the site and modern sustainability goals.
SS : The project was commissioned by our client with the vision of creating a landmark residential complex in Erdemli, Mersin. From the start, we shared the client’s ambition to design a living environment that blends luxury with cultural and historical identity. While the commission provided the opportunity, the concept itself was strongly shaped by the inspiration we drew from the region’s rich history and natural surroundings. Our goal was to reinterpret traditional architectural elements through a modern lens and integrate them with sustainable design principles to create a truly unique residential experience.
SS : The project is being developed directly by the client who commissioned the design. As S.A.I.T. Studio, we are responsible for the full architectural and interior design scope and are also actively involved in site supervision during construction. Since this design is tailored specifically for this client and location, we do not plan to sell or lease the production rights. Our priority is to ensure that the completed project fully reflects the design vision and delivers the intended living experience for future residents.
SS : We were inspired by the opportunity to create a residential complex that offers more than just housing, but a complete lifestyle experience. The project allowed us to explore how architecture can blend with nature, cultural identity, and modern living needs. The unique setting of Erdemli, with its rich history and beautiful coastal landscape, motivated us to design a development that respects its context while introducing new standards of quality and innovation. It was also an exciting challenge to design for a large and diverse community, bringing together private spaces, shared amenities, and sustainable features into a cohesive whole.
SS : The design of Royal Residential Complex was primarily inspired by the historical architecture of the region, particularly elements from the Hittite, Roman, and Byzantine periods. These influences shaped key design features such as arches, columns, and spatial proportions. In addition, we drew broader inspiration from contemporary residential projects that successfully integrate modern architecture with natural landscapes and community-oriented living. Rather than referencing specific designers, our approach was guided by principles of timeless design, sustainability, and creating spaces that enrich everyday life.
SS : The target customers for Royal Residential Complex are individuals and families seeking a high-quality, luxurious living environment that combines modern amenities with cultural character and natural beauty. The project appeals to discerning residents who value comfort, wellness, and community, as well as those looking for a home with smart technologies, expansive green spaces, and panoramic sea views. Many potential buyers are professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors who appreciate thoughtful design and a lifestyle that promotes well-being. The project also attracts those who wish to experience the charm of Erdemli while enjoying the conveniences of modern urban living.
SS : Royal Residential Complex stands apart through its seamless blend of modern architecture with cultural and historical references. The design thoughtfully incorporates elements such as arches and columns inspired by the region’s ancient civilizations, creating a strong sense of place and identity. In addition, the project offers a unique range of amenities, including a 2,200 square meter seawater pool, a 350-meter adventure canal, and thermal wellness facilities that go beyond standard residential offerings. Every apartment enjoys panoramic sea views, and the dynamic landscape lighting changes with the wind, enhancing the sensory experience. Finally, the integration of smart technologies, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient systems ensures that Royal offers not just luxury, but a forward-looking and environmentally responsible lifestyle.
SS : The name "Royal" was chosen to reflect the project’s vision of creating a residential complex that offers a sense of timeless elegance, luxury, and distinction. We wanted the name to convey the high standards of design, comfort, and quality that define the project, as well as the lifestyle it offers to residents. The word "Royal" also resonates with the architectural inspiration drawn from the region’s rich cultural heritage, subtly linking the modern living experience with a sense of historical grandeur.
SS : We used advanced BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools throughout the project to ensure precise coordination between architectural, structural, and mechanical systems. Parametric design tools helped us optimize spatial relationships and integrate complex architectural elements such as the arches and large-scale communal amenities. For visualization and presentation, we utilized high-end rendering software and virtual reality tools, which allowed us to refine material selections, lighting, and user experience. These tools also supported clear communication with the client and consultants during the design process.
SS : The most unique aspect of Royal Residential Complex is its ability to blend historical architectural inspiration with modern luxury and sustainability. The design draws from ancient regional influences, such as Hittite, Roman, and Byzantine elements, and reinterprets them in a contemporary way. At the same time, the project offers exceptional lifestyle amenities rarely found in similar developments, including a seawater pool, an adventure canal, thermal wellness facilities, and dynamic lighting that responds to the environment. Combined with smart home technologies, panoramic sea views, and a strong connection to nature, these elements create a residential experience that is both culturally rich and forward-looking.
SS : Yes, this project involved close collaboration with a wide range of technical experts. In addition to our core architectural and interior design team, we worked with structural engineers, mechanical and electrical consultants, landscape architects, and sustainability specialists. The complexity of the project required careful integration of smart technologies, energy-efficient systems, and advanced construction techniques. Regular collaboration with these specialists was essential to ensure that every aspect of the design — from structural integrity to environmental performance — met the highest standards. This multidisciplinary approach allowed us to fully realize the vision of Royal Residential Complex and deliver a cohesive and innovative design.
SS : Technology plays a central role in Royal Residential Complex, both in the design process and in the everyday experience of the residents. During the design phase, we used advanced BIM tools and parametric modeling to ensure precise planning and seamless integration of architectural and engineering systems. In the completed project, smart home technologies are integrated into each residence, allowing residents to control lighting, temperature, and security remotely. In addition, the project includes energy-efficient heating, advanced water management systems, and dynamic landscape lighting that responds to environmental conditions, enhancing the user experience. Overall, technology in this project is not just an add-on, but a core component of delivering comfort, sustainability, and a modern lifestyle.
SS : Yes, the design of Royal Residential Complex was informed by extensive data and analytical research. We began with detailed site analysis, including topography, climate, and environmental studies, to guide key design decisions. We also conducted user behavior research and surveys to better understand the needs and expectations of potential residents. This helped us define the mix of amenities, spatial layouts, and smart technologies that would enhance quality of life. Additionally, we collaborated with sustainability experts to analyze energy performance, water management, and material selection to ensure the project would meet high environmental standards. This research-driven approach allowed us to create a design that balances luxury, functionality, and long-term sustainability.
SS : One of the main challenges was balancing the vision of modern luxury with the principles of sustainability and cultural sensitivity. Integrating advanced technologies and high-end amenities while respecting the historical and architectural identity of the region required careful design decisions. Another challenge was adapting the design to the local climate and building regulations in Erdemli, Mersin. The complexity of the site, combined with the scale of the project, required innovative solutions to manage energy efficiency, structural integrity, and environmental performance. Finally, coordinating a large, multidisciplinary team and maintaining design integrity throughout the construction process demanded strong communication and flexibility. Overcoming these challenges strengthened our design process and resulted in a more thoughtful and resilient project.
SS : We believed that Royal Residential Complex represented a significant step forward in our work, both in terms of design quality and integration of cultural, environmental, and technological elements. Submitting to the A’ Design Award was a natural decision, as it provided an opportunity to present the project on an international platform and gain valuable feedback from the global design community. We wanted to showcase how architecture can create meaningful experiences that reflect both place and time, and we saw this competition as an excellent way to share our vision and connect with like-minded professionals worldwide.
SS : Designing Royal Residential Complex expanded our understanding of how to balance modern luxury with sustainability and cultural relevance in a large-scale residential project. Through this project, we deepened our knowledge of advanced building technologies, energy-efficient systems, and smart home integration. We also gained valuable experience in managing the complex relationship between architecture, landscape, and communal spaces. Perhaps most importantly, the project reinforced the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and attention to context. Working with diverse experts and responding to evolving site and client requirements made us stronger as a team and enriched our design approach for future projects.
SS : We would like to express our appreciation for the opportunity to share the story of Royal Residential Complex. As a studio, we are committed to creating designs that respect the local context while embracing innovation and sustainability. Projects like Royal allow us to explore how architecture can enhance daily life and contribute positively to both community and environment. We are also very pleased to have received an A’ Design Award for this project. It is a great honor for our team, and the recognition motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of our work and strive for excellence in future projects.
