The Private Quarters, or Haremlik, represents a side of the Lodge that is often less visible than prayer halls or visitation spaces: the dimension of everyday life, privacy, and continuity. In the traditional lodge setting, such quarters supported the residential rhythm connected to the complex—quiet, functional spaces shaped by modesty and order.
For many years, however, this part of the site was no longer a functioning building. The Haremlik area had fallen into a ruined condition, and for a period it was used as a football pitch, disconnected from the Lodge’s architectural and spiritual integrity.
In a significant act of stewardship, the İLKSAV Foundation undertook the restoration of the Haremlik and reconstructed it from the ground up, aiming to revive it in accordance with its original character. This was not a superficial renovation, but a careful effort to return a lost layer of the complex—so that the Lodge could once again be understood as a coherent whole.
Today, the renewed Haremlik contributes to the Lodge’s living heritage in three ways:
First, it restores the spatial balance of the site, reconnecting key areas and strengthening the sense of a complete ensemble.
Second, it preserves a memory of the Lodge’s residential and private dimension—an essential part of how such complexes historically functioned.
Third, it stands as a reminder that heritage is not only protected by keeping what remains, but also by reviving what has been lost with responsibility, accuracy, and respect.
If you would like to learn more about the Lodge’s architectural layers and restoration story, we invite you to explore the History section and related resources in Media.