Kemal Aktuglu House

Introduction

The Kemal Aktuğlu House, on Fevzi Çakmak Avenue — one of Bornova's oldest settlement axes — was built in the 1860s for staff working on the construction of Bornova Railway Station. Reflecting the typical stone residential architecture of the period, the building is one of the examples of civic architecture from Bornova's early industrial era, with its plain façade and two-storey plan.

History and Transformation

The building, which saw various uses over time, remained neglected for many years and fell into a partially dilapidated state.

Restoration work carried out in 2015 by its owner Kemal Aktuğlu restored the building to its original character, returning it to Bornova.

The stone façade, timber joinery and original entrance form were preserved during restoration.

Cultural Meaning and Local Tradition

According to a tradition recounted among long-standing Bornova residents, meals for Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk were prepared in this house during his visits to Bornova.

This narrative demonstrates that the building has become an element of urban memory possessing not merely architectural but also commemorative value.

Architectural Features

• Storeys: Two-storey; stone foundation and brick wall system.
• Façade: Symmetrical window arrangement, plain pediment, timber joinery.
• Plan: Typical 19th-century civic residential layout defined by a spacious entrance hall and lateral rooms.

Garden: Small front courtyard and rear service area.