ABOUT ME
Hello, I’m Gizem Şahin — an architect with a deep interest in how spaces shape experiences and identities. Over the past 10+ years, I’ve worked as a senior architect // project manager
both in various offices and as a freelancer, contributing to a diverse range of architectural and interior projects.
I hold a Master’s degree in Architectural Design from Istanbul Technical University, where I explored the construction of İzmir’s city image in the post-1950s period. I’ve also written and researched topics around women in architecture, architectural representation methods, and the cultural narratives embedded in the built environment.
I’m passionate about sustainability, open to new ways of thinking & improving myself, and genuinely enjoy working across different project typologies.
I live in Izmir but Istanbul is my second base — I also collaborate on international projects, embracing opportunities wherever quality design is needed.
EXPERIENCE
My professional journey has given me the chance to work across a wide range of scales — from interior design projects to large-scale architectural competitions and urban developments. I’ve been involved in projects such as boutique clinics, private residences, hospitality spaces, cultural buildings, and public institutions. Each project has brought a different perspective, allowing me to develop a holistic design approach that balances aesthetics, function, and context.
I’ve worked on international projects in cities like Vienna, London, Amsterdam, Cairo and Buraydah, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and adapting designs to different cultural, historical, and regulatory environments. These experiences have strengthened my ability to think flexibly and communicate design intent clearly, regardless of project size or location.
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
At the heart of my design approach is a strong commitment to understanding the needs, desires, and everyday rhythms of the people who will use a space. I believe good design should be personal, grounded, and genuinely local — never one-size-fits-all. Every project deserves its own unique language. Whether I’m designing a living room or a public school, I aim to create spaces that make life a little easier, a little warmer, and ultimately more meaningful for the people they serve.
WHAT I OFFER
Through Whimsical Home Finds, I now offer online design consulting services tailored to small-scale projects, alongside concept development for architectural and interior design as a freelance architect. I also provide detailed construction drawing documents, enabling me to manage a project from concept to execution. I regularly collaborate with engineers, consultants, and other professionals — taking on roles in coordination, supervision, and team management when needed. In addition, I work across disciplines to offer editorial content, website design, and brand design, approaching each task with a comprehensive and cohesive design mindset.
LET’S CONNECT!
If you’re looking for thoughtful, well-rounded design support —
from big-picture ideas to the smallest details —
I’d love to assist you in this process to help create a final product that genuinely reflects
your needs, your story, and your style.
Let’s connect.
