Akra Didim is a 340,000 m² coastal landscape and ecological hospitality campus located within Baransel Beach Cove along the Didim coastline in Aydın, Türkiye. With approximately 1,050 meters of shoreline and nearly 34 meters of topographical elevation difference, the site possesses a strong geographical character shaped by karstic rock formations and Mediterranean maquis vegetation. The project creates a layered hospitality system composed of 279 hotel rooms, 50 adult villas, and 33 family villas.

The main design approach was not to transform nature, but to read it and produce together with it. Existing vegetation and natural rock formations became the primary references of the project. The ecological structure, composed of species such as Pinus pinea, Ceratonia siliqua, Olea europaea, Arbutus unedo, Ficus carica, Pistacia terebinthus, Tamarix, and Laurus nobilis, was carefully preserved as the site’s ecological backbone.

During the construction process, 4,303 native plants were carefully removed, preserved in temporary nursery areas, and reintegrated into the site. All excavated soil and stone materials were reused within the project area, with no external fill material introduced. This approach preserved the site’s natural seed memory and supported seasonal vegetation regeneration. The “In Place” zone located on the western and southwestern edges of the family villas became a visible expression of this strategy.

The planting design is based on a Mediterranean xerophytic ecosystem composed of drought tolerant shrubs, grasses, and tree species adapted to the local climate. Shrub and groundcover layers include species such as Lavandula, Rosmarinus, Salvia, Thymus, Stipa, Leymus, Vitex agnus-castus, and Agave americana. Within the tree layer, Cupressus sempervirens ‘Pyramidalis’ creates a strong vertical emphasis, while Olea europaea defines the dominant landscape character. Around the pools, lightweight and wind responsive planting layers were created using Stipa and Leymus species beneath vertical tree compositions. Approximately 20,000 m² of multifunctional lawn areas were designed using drought resistant Zoysia grass supported by drip irrigation systems.

The planting palette ranges from dark greens to grey green and bluish tones, enriched with terracotta, earth toned, blue, and red accents. Roof surfaces were transformed into ecological covers through the use of Carpobrotus acinaciformis, while poolside compositions established a strong vertical rhythm through repetitive cypress and olive tree planting.

The circulation system was designed in harmony with the topography through ramps, stairways, and alternative access scenarios, creating diverse spatial experiences. The main circulation axis was intentionally positioned along the line where the site’s topographical character could be experienced most strongly.

Salkım Restaurant was designed as a structure elevated on a pilotis system positioned on sloped terrain. This approach minimizes the visual impact of the building mass while preserving the continuity of the natural maquis vegetation beneath it. The open space below the structure functions as an ecological living layer integrated with the landscape, while the three part building composition organizes itself around an existing olive tree positioned at its center.

The project embraces coexistence with the existing fauna. Bird habitats were preserved, the natural soundscape shaped by wind and environmental conditions was maintained, and natural stone elements were reused to support the creation of micro habitats throughout the site.

Akra Didim presents a holistic ecological hospitality approach where landscape is treated not as a background element, but as the primary carrier of the design itself. Rather than imitating nature, the project exists together with it.

Landscape Architecture: TTds | Tülay Tosun Design Studio
Architectural Design: Baraka Architects
Lighting Design: LINE Lighting Design
Client: Akra Hotels
Area: 340.000 m²
Status: Completed, Constructed
Completion Year: 2026
Photography: Merve Yumuk Photography

Altınkum, Aşık Veysel Cad. 352 Sk 2/A, 09270 Didim/Aydın

73656