We believe every design task is unique within its environment and requires a unique approach to create a desired and satisfactory outcome...
WHO ARE WE?
Studio Fandam is an interdisciplinary design studio rooted in architectural thinking, founded by Handan Akyürek, an M.Sc. architect and visual artist. Based in Turkey and collaborating globally, the studio takes its name from Handan’s childhood nickname and operates on a flexible system rather than heavy office hierarchies.
While Handan sits at the core as the primary maker, we partner with senior professionals to build custom collaborations tailored to the specific context and scale of each project. We view design as an interactive playground—a space where ideas, people, mediums, and platforms converge, offering infinite possibilities.
WHAT DO WE DO?
We apply architectural discipline across various scales, encompassing spatial design, object design, and architectural visual communication. For us, designing a space or an object is inseparable from designing its narrative. Our expertise spans spatial design, 3D visualization, architectural storytelling, visual direction, and architectural editorial.
We specialize in research-based practices—translating complex data into 3D forms or transforming historical and academic research into contemporary spatial models. Whether we are shaping an interior environment or a physical object, we construct the comprehensive visual communication that translates how that design came to life.
HOW DO WE DO?
Rather than applying a rigid workflow, we build a custom production system for every project. By carefully defining the specific problem at hand, we reorganize our diverse toolkit to meet those exact needs.
Depending on the task, our methodologies can range from advanced 3D computational coding to hands-on analog techniques. Blending algorithmic thinking with tactile making allows us to approach design as an adaptable, problem-solving practice.
WE COLLABORATED WITH
Sergen Sehitoglu, Studio Pathway, Elvira Guardia, SANALarc, HelsinkiZurich, Yuva Project
HANDAN AKYUREK, Founder
Handan Akyürek received her B.Arch from Yıldız Technical University in 2015. During her four years at SANALarc, she gained comprehensive experience ranging from concept design to site management, ultimately specializing in architectural visual communication design.
Her practical background is further informed by international roles, including managing a construction site in Malta and working as an architectural intern in Helsinki. Since 2019, she has continuously collaborated with various artists, architects, and researchers.
She later pursued her M.Sc. at Middle East Technical University (METU), defending her thesis in 2023 on interpreting user traces as feedback mechanisms through a machine learning implementation.
In 2024, she founded Studio Fandam. Today, she seamlessly bridges her spatial expertise with her ongoing academic research and her practice as a visual artist focusing on embroidery and analog photography.