In 2016, I was dreaming about travelling to Cuba, running my first half marathon. Until 2016, I haven’t go abroad; so I set it as a goal. However this was a goal that costs a lot. And I looked for side jobs like working at cafe to save money. But I couldn’t save enough money both working on weekdays at office as an architect and as a barista at the cafe. While I was thinking about my alternatives I saw a job posted on a whatsapp group and I sent an email that explains my reason to apply for this job. Then I was invited to an interview. I met Aslıhan Hanım there. She was running an agency. She sad that I was overqualified for that position but she was impressed by my unusual story: looking for a side job to be able to go to a marathon. That’s why she offered me to design their studio. I was surprised and excited. For the first time I would design as a freelance architect. Of course I accepted her offer and designed the studio. That was the beginning of the opportunities come my way because I’m running. When it comes to designing and building my first freelance project, I was nervous. I was exploring the process for the first time and I was alone. I din’t even know who would built the design. I was gathering offers, presenting to my clients. I wasn’t sure if they could do the job properly. Then eventually we started. It has been a journey that has ups and downs. I learned a lot during the process and I feel happy to design a space that has a spirit and would love to thank Aslıhan Hanım to gave me this chance.
