Selçuk Avcı - Avci Architects

Founding Partner, BSc., B.Arch

Selçuk Avcı

Balancing Theory and Practice

Selçuk Avcı sketching over project plans in his studio—a moment reflecting the creative process where theory meets practice. His cat Sülyo, who has been a silent companion in these design processes for the past five years, symbolizes the personal and human side of architectural practice.

Throughout his career, Selçuk Avcı has sought to balance architectural theory with practice, working not only as an architect but also as a development consultant and real estate developer. His multidisciplinary role allows him to consider projects from multiple angles—beyond aesthetics, he addresses the financial, social, and environmental dimensions of design.

At the core of his philosophy is holistic design thinking. For Avcı, architecture is not about isolated buildings but about creating integrated solutions that respond to their context and enhance quality of life.

By combining creative vision with technical expertise and aligning sustainability with economic viability, he views design as a transformative tool—for spaces, communities, and the environment alike.

Education and Academic Contributions

Selçuk Avcı delivering a lecture at Yıldız Technical University, sharing insights on sustainability and architectural innovation with students and industry professionals.

Selçuk Avcı’s commitment to architecture extends beyond practice into education and knowledge sharing. Throughout his career, he has contributed to the academic field by teaching at some of the world’s leading architecture schools.

He has held positions as a lecturer and visiting professor at: Architectural Association (AA), London, Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London, Bath University School of Architecture, Delft Technical University, Ljubljana University, Faculty of Architecture

In Turkey, he has continued his teaching in: Bilgi University, Faculty of Architecture, Istanbul Technical University, Department of Architecture. Through these roles, Avcı has mentored countless young architects, encouraging them to think critically, design responsibly, and embrace sustainability as a core value in their work.

Innovative Initiatives and Collaborations

From THE CIRCLE’s exhibition “Principles, Obsessions, Desires”—a “table exhibition” presenting a curated collection of ideas, sketches, and material explorations. Selçuk Avcı leads this collaborative display to foster dialogue and creative exchange between professionals, students, and the public.

THE CIRCLE – A Platform for Progressive Thinking

In 2018, Avcı co-founded THE CIRCLE, a collective and collaborative platform based in Istanbul. THE CIRCLE operates as:

A professional hub for exhibitions, events, and dialogues, A think tank fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, An academic initiative that supports younger generations and encourages knowledge sharing

THE CIRCLE’s mission is to promote progressive ideas in architecture, design, and urbanism, while creating spaces where different disciplines can come together to rethink the future of the built environment.

This collection from Principles, Obsessions, Desires offers a rare glimpse into Selçuk Avcı’s collaborative and transparent design process.

WITH EVERY NEW PROJECT, HE REMINDS US THAT ARCHITECTURE IS NOT JUST ABOUT BUILDING SPACES, BUT ABOUT CREATING PLACES THAT ARE LIVED, FELT, AND SHARED.