GEMSS’19, GEMSS’21 and GEMSS’23
Within the Avcı world, we created the GEMSS series in collaboration with our sub-brands The Circle and Bespoke+. While The Circle acted as the cultural and curatorial platform—framing the discourse, shaping the narrative, and providing a home for architectural dialogue—Bespoke+ translated these ideas into physical reality, designing and producing all exhibition elements, publications, and spatial installations. This dual force represents our holistic philosophy: that architecture is not only about creating buildings, but also about building platforms for culture, exchange, and collective growth.
Purpose of GEMSS
The aim of GEMSS (Emerging Architects Selection & Exhibition) is to highlight, document, and celebrate the contributions of emerging architectural practices to Türkiye’s evolving cultural landscape. By focusing on architects under 40, the series identifies and amplifies the voices shaping the future of design—offering them visibility, recognition, and a stage to engage with both national and international audiences. GEMSS exists as a bridge between practice and discourse, between architectural production and cultural awareness.
GEMSS’19: The First Voice
The inaugural edition, GEMSS’19, set the foundation for this cultural initiative. Through an exhibition and publication, it showcased pioneering young practices and articulated the value of archiving their contributions. More than just an exhibition, GEMSS’19 was conceived as a manifesto: a call to acknowledge, nurture, and learn from the emerging generation of architects who bring fresh perspectives to the profession.
GEMSS’21: Expanding the Dialogue
In GEMSS’21, the program advanced with a stronger framework for selection and broader cultural outreach. Architects were evaluated not only on built projects but also on their ability to innovate and influence through research, competitions, and interdisciplinary exploration. This edition underscored GEMSS as a living forum for ideas, a biennial rhythm that enriches Turkey’s architectural discourse through exhibitions, publications, and public events.
GEMSS’21: Expanding the Dialogue
In GEMSS’21, the program advanced with a stronger framework for selection and broader cultural outreach. Architects were evaluated not only on built projects but also on their ability to innovate and influence through research, competitions, and interdisciplinary exploration. This edition underscored GEMSS as a living forum for ideas, a biennial rhythm that enriches Turkey’s architectural discourse through exhibitions, publications, and public events.
Next project
Corniche Tower
