Didem Çalışkan Gençsoy

Didem Çalışkan Gençsoy is an architect whose career at Metex Design / Architects spans over two decades of creative leadership and technical expertise. A graduate of Yıldız Technical University’s Faculty of Architecture, her early exposure to architecture came through her aunt, a practicing architect whose mentorship left a lasting impact on her passion for design.

Didem’s journey with Metex Design / Architects began in 1999 with the Ritz Carlton Hotel Istanbul project, where she took on key responsibilities throughout the interior design and construction phases. Her early exposure to high-profile hospitality projects, including the Sofa Hotel Istanbul, taught her to prioritize both form and function. These projects instilled in her the importance of aligning conceptual design with on-site realities—a philosophy that continues to guide her work.

Didem has led numerous large-scale projects throughout her career, with a notable highlight being the Acıbadem Taksim Hospital, which she spearheaded from 2013 onwards. Her direct involvement in all stages—design, client coordination, and on-site management—set a new standard for Metex’s healthcare work. Her portfolio now includes a growing number of hospitals, showcasing her depth in navigating complex, high-stakes environments.This project marked a major step in expanding Metex’s healthcare portfolio, and her leadership in subsequent hospital projects helped elevate the firm’s credibility in medical architecture.

In 2020, her contributions were formally recognized when she became a Partner at Metex. Since then, she has been actively involved in the firm’s strategic evolution, including the transition to a studio-based structure and the expansion of international operations. She continues to lead projects across multiple geographies, including Baku, Malta, Tashkent, Kinshasa, Abuja, and beyond—bringing a thoughtful and adaptive design methodology to each context.

Didem’s leadership style is defined by open communication, attention to detail, and a commitment to professional integrity. She works closely with Principal Partner Sinan Kafadar to direct both the creative and operational vision of the studio. Within Metex, she also plays a pivotal role in mentoring younger architects, fostering an environment that values both discipline and innovation.

Looking ahead, she aims to expand her contributions to the academic world by offering seminars on hotel and hospital design—sharing insights gained through years of practical experience. She is a member of both the Turkish Chamber of Architects and the IstanbulSMD, where she continues to support the wider architectural community.