Construction Within the Void | Elif Ülger Yalçın | TEDxNecmettin Erbakan University

The talk argues that in architecture, a structure is defined less by its facade than by the void it organizes and the unseen system that supports it. Elif Ülger Yalçın links this idea to entrepreneurship and personal change, describing how she helped found Arabica Coffee House, got through a crisis during the pandemic, and worked on social impact. She argues that lasting strength comes from adaptability, shared leadership, and an authentic inner foundation.

• The unseen structural system and the role of the void in architecture
• Founding and growing a brand from scratch
• Adaptability and shared leadership during crisis

In architecture, what truly defines a structure is not its facade, but the void it organizes and the unseen structural system that supports it. In this compelling talk, Elif Ülger Yalçın draws parallels between architecture, entrepreneurship, and personal transformation. Sharing her journey of founding a brand from scratch, navigating crisis during the pandemic, and driving social impact, she demonstrates how real strength comes from adaptability, shared leadership, and building authentic inner foundations rather than superficial facades. Elif Ülger Yalçın is a accomplished business figure who integrates architecture, design, and entrepreneurship. A graduate of Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Department of Architecture, Yalçın continues her professional work through 2Dsign Architecture and Design Studio, and co-founded Arabica Coffee House in 2014 alongside Attorney Sertaç Yalçın. She is also a member of the TOBB Women Entrepreneurs Council. Today, Arabica Coffee House continues its path as a strong domestic brand growing across more than 65 cities with over 200 branches. Diversifying its expansion through brands and production setups in various sectors—such as Tastopia, Bonfesta, Maestro, and Arabica Kitchen Fit—the enterprise continues to invest in many fields ranging from production to technology. Arabica Coffee House stands out not only as a brand, but also as an organization that contributes to society. It makes significant contributions to sports through sponsorships, including serving as an Official Sponsor of National Teams, title sponsor for the Women's and Men's 1st Leagues, and main sponsor for the Turkish National Paralympic Committee. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx