The Center of Application and Research on Architectural Technology, known as the Mardin Architecture Factory (Mimfab), has a direct relationship with the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture at Mardin Artuklu University. At the same time, the architectural production model at Mimfab differs from the academic work carried out in the Department of Architecture in that it is sector-based and application-oriented, testing theoretical knowledge production models in a practical manner. Mimfab is operated by project-focused working groups. These teams are established by Mimfab directors in accordance with the recommendations of the Centre Management and Advisory Boards. In addition to the Faculty of Architecture, there are physical facilities evaluated by Mimfab in the associate degree programmes at vocational colleges that provide technical knowledge education.

Mimfab's contribution to academic programmes and research

The activities within Mimfab open up an application area for much of the theoretical knowledge demonstrated in the Department of Architecture and directly contribute to the development of courses within the field of information technology in architectural technology and architectural design. Today, architectural education and practice have begun to go beyond conventional production methods with digital methods that have shaped architectural production since the 1990s. Software and hardware, which were previously used by other engineering disciplines for the design and production of non-standard forms such as marine, air and space vehicles, now shape contemporary architectural production. Mimfab touches upon areas where science and technology intersect in this direction. It supports the study of contemporary postgraduate subjects at the Faculty of Architecture, built upon Mardin's architectural heritage carried from the past to the present, and its transformation into an academic centre of attraction in this direction.

Sectoral dimension

At Mimfab, academic-sectoral connections are established through its applications. Advanced architectural project production methods are utilised at MAÜ to efficiently and effectively carry out architectural project activities and provide consultancy and project services in architecture to external parties, thereby increasing productivity through innovative architectural project production models. With its capacity to use Building Information Modelling, which is developing in Turkey, Mimfab aims to be a national leader in this field. It is planned that Mimfab will be a guiding and reliable institution nationwide in testing Building Information Modelling methods, which have been made mandatory by foreign governments and are expected to become mandatory in Turkey in the near future.

Relationship with practical courses

Mimfab contributes to the development of knowledge and skills acquired by undergraduate and associate degree students, who are evaluated on the condition that they are from the MAÜ Architecture and Architectural Restoration departments, within the framework of their degree programmes. Opportunities are created for academics from MAÜ Architecture and related departments, who will participate in project-based working teams, to gain practical experience.

Contribution to the university and society

Mimfab's research and development activities shape know-how projects that strengthen academic-sectoral ties. In this context, the university's architectural service needs are also met within the scope of R&D activities. Mimfab's work supports the improvement of physical environmental conditions for the benefit of society by developing grounds for cooperation with other institutions and organisations with the aim of contributing to architectural and urban design applications in the city of Mardin.

Physical facilities

Mardin Artuklu University has the basic facilities required for Mimfab's activities. These facilities are grouped into three main categories:

Production technologies: 2 CNC lathes, 1 large CNC machine

Material analysis laboratories: 2 material analysis/testing laboratories

Information technology laboratories: 2 computer laboratories with a total capacity of approximately 100 computers