Necdet Ulema

Architect | Co-Founder

---

I graduated from the Department of Architecture at Izmir Dokuz Eylül University in 1991. During my university years, I took on various tasks on construction sites in addition to my compulsory internships. The skills and knowledge I gained during these years formed the foundation of my career. In 1996, I co-founded Ulema and Ulema Architecture with my wife and partner, Dürrin. Before that, my work experience in companies like Odak Construction, Güner Eliçin Architecture Office, and the Büyük Efes Hotel Conference Center project, both locally and internationally, helped me develop quick and rational decision-making skills during design and implementation processes. I have always taken responsibility in project management. As a firm that believes knowledge multiplies through sharing, working with young architects, supporting architecture students, and recent graduates is important to us. Thanks to the discipline I gained at Izmir Atatürk High School, I have been actively involved in associations, chambers, and NGOs throughout my career. I served on the Board of Directors of the Izmir Chamber of Architects for over 10 years and was the treasurer. I have also been a member of the Board of Directors of the Izmir Free Architects Association (IzmirSMD). I am currently a member of the Smyrna Tepekule Promotion and Preservation Association and the Cesme Contractors and Business People Association. I am a licensed sailor and my interests in sailing, painting, and contemporary art are an integral part of both my work and personal life.