World Architecture Day: Housing Is a Human Right

Prof. Dr. Cemil Atakara, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Design and Architecture at Cyprus International University (CIU), emphasized, on the occasion of World Architecture Day on October 5, the importance of accessible, safe, and sustainable living spaces within the framework of the 2026 theme, “Housing Is a Human Right. Build It.” He stated that housing is not merely a structure that meets the need for shelter.

Prof. Dr. Atakara said, “Housing is directly related to security, privacy, health, a sense of belonging, and quality of life. Housing is not a luxury but a fundamental human right.” He emphasized that while architecture provides the spatial expression of this right, it must also take people’s living conditions and diverse needs into consideration.
Stating that housing development should not focus solely on increasing the number of buildings, Atakara highlighted the importance of creating healthy and livable environments alongside economically accessible housing. He noted that housing should be considered together with access to transportation, public spaces, education, healthcare, and social services.

Atakara also stated that the adaptive reuse and transformation of existing buildings offer an important option in the field of architecture. He explained that such practices can contribute to the efficient use of resources and the development of sustainable cities. Atakara added that architects have a responsibility not only in the design of new buildings but also in improving existing living environments.

Stating that the 2026 theme of World Architecture Day brings the social dimension of housing to the forefront, Atakara emphasized that architecture should maintain its human-centered approach. He said, “The responsibility of architecture is to strengthen the spatial expression of this right by creating high-quality, accessible, and sustainable living environments.”