02007DIT
1. CONTEXT
MOBILITY
“Who takes Taksim takes everything! ” (Transformation of public squares of Istanbul between 1938-1949) that’s how Professor Birge Yildirim encompasses the strategic value that Taksim Square has for the city of Istanbul. Taksim Square has always been a space for urban transformations. A politically complex space, rich in historical stratifications, and the place that connects and redistributes city flows. Today still a central place for the affirmation of hegemonic power. Local development
LEGEND
policies focused on the construction sector have
main road
cornered the city over time, creating a reduction in
secondary road
public spaces with negative impacts on both ecology
pedestrian street
and democracy. Gezi Park is the symbol of these politics.
pedestrian area
Protests in 2013 triggered by citizens, young people, the
tramway route
middle class, national and local movements have shown
cableway route
that there is a vast, proudly different and united group of
bus stops and rout
citizens that claim their right to the city by recognizing
underground stops and route
Taksim Square as a place of symbolism and identity.
mobility interchange node
FUNCTIONS
MCDONALD
STARBUCKS TAKSIM MAKSEMI REPUBLIC MONUMENT HISTORIC TRAM LINE
TAKSIM HILL HOTEL
BULTUR TAKSIM GEZI PARKI KAFETERYA
ROYAL TURKISH SCHOOLS
HAFID MUSTAFA CVK TAKSIM HOTEL ISTANBUL
ARCHITECURE UNIVERSITY
FOUNTAIN PARK CENTRE
ITU FACULTY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING KULTUR BAKANLIGI DEVLET OPERA METRO ACCESS STATION
ISTIKLAL CD.
KITCHENETTE
GERMINAR PALAS HOTEL
RESIDENTIAL
TAXIM HILL HOTEL
Gezi Park 2013 - photo by www.reclaimistanbul.com
THE MARMARA TAKSIM HOTEL
INTENSE TRAFFIC
ABDULHAK HAMIT CD.
METE CD
HAYAT CAFE
PRIVATE OFFICE
BEYOGLU FESTIVAL ALANI
INSURENCE AGENCY
OUTDOR FESTIVAL
MIRALAY SEFIKBEY SK.
SIMIY SARAYI
INONU CD
GARANTI BBVA CUMHURIYET
AUTOBUS OFFICE AGENCY
BIBLOS DOVIZ
CAR PARKS AWAY FROM THE SQUARE
SAVAS&BIBLOS TAKSIM GEZI PARK GEZI CAFE
BANKS
BUDJET OFFICE TU GUMUSSUYU CAMPUS ATARUK KITAPLIGI
SAFRAN RESTAURANT
GAZHANE BOSTANI SK.
LEGEND
FIORE PIZZERIA ITALIAN
INTERCONTINENTAL ISTANBUL STUDYZONE YUTDISI EGITIM
IGDAS OFFICE TAKSIM SEBEKE SEFLIGI
DIVAN ISTANBUL OTEL
GRAND HOTEL HYATT ISTANBUL
cultural, tourist and commercial activities day time local activities
2. ANALYSIS, USE AND USER
BLUE AND GREEN SYSTEM
Despite the criticalities of the square, the decision of making pedestrians part of the square and dedicating more space to soft users was necessary. The complex public transportation network surrounding Taksim distributes users across the city and makes it possible to plan the traffic flow. The oversized spaces give a feeling of being disoriented and the scale is not proportional to humans’ sensory experiences. The functions of the space are divided between areas of interest with a lot of activity, and areas of transit. The south-west area of t he square is more used, full of cultural-, tourist- and commercial activities while the north-east area, which houses functions only open daytime. At the center of this functional imbalance is Gezi Park that represents the attempt of the relationship between the natural and urban environment. However the synergy between the two is questionable and despite high biodiversity, the park is unable to transition into the urban and the coexistence with people. There is great potential for a strong green connection to local values, history and education. Walking in Taksim square creates a sense of disorientation. There is no clear hierarchy of streets and paths, focal points or perspectives, which indirectly produces a social attitude of estrangement. Currently the main human activity taking place in the square is passing through the space. The opportunities for stopping and interacting with the built environment and other LEGEND
people are few and not stimulating. Although there is arguably a negative perception present of a not organically designed
trees
space, the square has always been a melting pot of a heterogeneous mix of ethnic and religious groups, as well as a stage for
natural green
events and periodic exhibitions. The heart of Istanbul is approaching its next urban transform with the main goal of better adapting according to the needs of the people.
accessible green historical fountain
CITIZENSHIP
new fountain historical water channels
2.691
123
15.029.231
26
INHABITANTS OF ISTANBUL (IBB)-2017
MENTAL MAP
“Social life in
LEGEND chaotic area strategic node critical node main landmark
Istanbul is distributed in the districts because the city is too large and transport is difficult. We usually use specific districts such as Kadıköy, Beșiktaș and Beyoğlu
”
35 “Beyoğlu was the meeting point
236.606
51% 49%
INHABITANTS OF BEYOGLU-2017
SOURCE OF HAPPINESS ISTANBUL (IBB) 2013
of my circle of friends. But it has changed radically from the past. Not only people, but I mean ... places have changed. Now it's ugly. Somehow, it's not for me!
67,1%
”
health
negative landmark underestimated symbol lighting connected areas inaccessible edge
3,4 % money
1,9% other
Taksim square public green areas connected urban district predestrian access to Gezi park predestrian access to Taksim square
15,3% love
1,9% job
10 % success
Community surveillance means the presence of a cohesive society in which people take care of each other. This initiative comes from the residents themselves (Jacobs 1961).
The complexity is influenced by the density of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, as well as by the architectural diversity between ancient, historical, contemporary or new.
AS A PASSER BY
SOCIAL SUSTAINABILTY
“I’m a green square - sustainable and full of life. I’m not the only one! I influence changes that will characterize adjacent public space. I’m not just a place to pass by, but a dynamic one where you can stop and stay, get to know me and feel part of a collective identity.”
A MEETING POINT
OWNERSHIP
FOR PUBBLIC TRASPORTATION
“My story is your story, let’s write the future of our city and society together. My voice becomes the voice of the community. You trasform me and you adapt me to your needs based on what represents you.”
TOURISM
CONNECTIVITY
The perception of safety in urban planning and planning improves physical, mental and social health by promoting social interaction
WORK AT THE SQUARE
3. PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
TO EDUCATE
6:00
9:00
PEDESTRIAN FLOWS
15:00
“I want to allow you to reclaim this space. I want you to help making this space one of activity and diversity. You are welcomed and you can voice your needs. I offer a democratic and safe urban space. Together, we connect people and place in one square.”
22:00 24:00
3:00
6:00
Reference : - Ceren Kulkul (2020), “Public Space and Social Polarization. A case study of the New Wave Turkish Migrants with a comparative analysis of Berlin, İstanbul & Ankara”, City Space Architecture. - Taksim Square Time Lapse - 21 february 2020
Like a Scrabble play board, Taksim Square’s concept is based
enriches the square, the historical trees are maintained and
on a multifaceted of key words. Connectivity, Ownership
amplified, Gezi Park unfolds between the nearby streets, the
and Social Sustainability are the main guidelines and integral
new boulevards accommodate trees, bushes and a rain garden
for the design. “Connectivity” is defined in how the main
system.
pathways cross the space, connecting the square and the
The three keywords have been selected from a list of concepts
park and enhancing the experience between Taksim and the
that is strongly connected with the city, the context and the
surrounding neighborhood. This new infrastructure creates
square’s identity. The analysis and the context interpretation
a network of strategic centres. “Ownership” is closely linked
define smaller segments and spaces that characterize Taksim
with the Taksim’s physical and ideological past. The key
through a series of designed and fixed elements, such as
is to identify which historical and symbolic elements are
materials, greenery, water features and paving. In addition to
maintained, emphasized and integrated into the design. “Social
these fixed features, we propose an Abacus of Urban Objects
sustainability” is a fundamental aspect of the project. Taksim from which locals will select the functions of the spaces to Square isn’t only a green area but a sustainable network for
best fit their needs. The selection process is an integral part
mobility and social interactions. The addition of green patches
of the co-creation in the next design phases.
MAIN STRUCTURE OF THE NEW TAKSIM SQUARE & GEZI PARK
4. FUTURE PERSPECTIVES Taksim Square is characterised by areas that provide a different function, form and feel.
“I meditate” is the place of worship characterized by a relaxing area of meditation and introspection through a linear pattern pavement, water elements and natural relaxing essences. “I welcome” is a space for connections, with the metro and tram stops, info-point, signage and shaded sofas with flowering trees. “I amplify” is tied to the political and socio-cultural beliefs characterized by a symbolic circle that is partially surrounded by trees and a series of circular seats “I tell” speaks about the city’s memories. It could host an exhibition space, audio installations or other temporary interventions to show and tell the past, present and future of Istanbul. “I play” is a fun area for all ages with small stages, a multifunctional colourful playground and surrounded by shrubs. “I energize” is enhanced by a hexagonal pattern which defines both pavement and green areas. The geometric seats delimit the flowerbeds with evergreen trees and bushes. It is also connected to a series of bars and commercial spaces under
OWNERSHIP
CONNECTIVITY
SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
NEW MOBILITY
LEGEND main road secondary road pedestrian street pedestrian area tramway stops and route cableway route
My new circle squares will host temporary art installations
bus stops and rout underground stops and route
I meditate
mobility interchange node
*
I energise
SECTION A-A’
I play
*
I welcome
*
*
I am mediterranean
*
I amplify
I tell
*
I am biodiverse
I share
T
I teach
*
80.47
i TAKSIM SQUARE
80.06
TAK-I ZAFER CD. WITH TRAMWAY AND VEHICULAR ROAD
the western part of the park. The configuration of the Park provides change in the cross-section, the eastern gentle
SECTION B-B’
slope is maintained and a roof garden on the western side is added. “I am mediterranean” expresses the cultural and geographical matrix of Istanbul: mediterranean scrub and typical markets which suggest a warm atmosphere.
“I share” is dedicated to the convivial culture and the community belonging with the possibility of sharing books, tables and the outdoor gyms. “I teach” amplifies the presence of the library with greenhouses and spaces that will be able to engage different age ranges.
“I am biodiverse” explores the greenest area and aims to increase the presence of bees, bugs and birds. Existing trees are preserved and different high footbridges of new trees allow people to enjoy the foliage. The sustainable approach of the project leads to rethink the mobility around Taksim. A new green tramway, partly following the original route from Galata Tower to Taksim square, connects the area with many cultural and strategic points (ITU Faculty of Architecture, Taşkışla station, Open Air Theatre, Congress Centre). The tramway is bordered
T T
81.97 80.76
by two pedestrian-cycle paths and the vehicular mobility is deflected at Miralay Sefikbey St. The new mobility network is also on par with the new green boulevards that
80.06
NEW SQUARE WITH ART INSTALLATION GEZI PARK
METE CD. WITH TRAMWAY AND CYCLE-PEDESTRIAN PATHS
suggest future scenarios for sustainability in Istanbul.
SECTION C-C’
82.34
78.46 77.52 GEZI PARK URBAN ELEMENTS FROM THE ABACUS
BARS, SHOPS AND ATELIERS
ABACUS OF URBAN OBJECTS
PAVEMENTS
DESIGNED AND FIXED ELEMENTS
I meditate
i
I welcome
I amplify
Travertine
GREEN ELEMENTS
Linestone
I tell
New Trees in the park
Blooming Trees
Tree Protector
Trees in pots I play
Trees in above ground flowerbed
Colorful Bushes
Mediterranean Scrub
Meditative Bushes
I energise
I am mediterranean
Plants for biodiversity
Greenhouses
High Footbridges
WATER ELEMENTS
Sounding Plants
I share
Ground-level Fountain
Water mirror
Fountains
Rain garden
5. ABACUS OF URBAN OBJECTS
I teach
The Abacus of Urban Objects is the toolkit to involve the community in the design of the public space. The Urban Objects have the scope of designing the square in a human scale perspective. The aim is to solve the feeling of vastness and creating instead a strong sense of belongings. Urban objects emphasize project’s pillars with their form, light and plants. The Abacus is divided in ten categories which define the main characteristic of Taksim Square. Each category contains five suggestions of Urban Objects that locals can use as a toolkit to design their own space. Citizens can add or modify elements to answer their needs. All the Urban Objects dialogue with pavements and vegetation as part of the design of the square. Most of the elements include shading and lighting systems in order to create a safe and comfortable place.
i i
I am biodiverse
6. PARTICIPATION PROCESS Co-creation and citizen involvement in local governance, can guarantee informed decision making and a higher success rate for
a toolkit the team will organize a series of workshops to involve the community and actively participate in the design. The
urban development projects. Drawing on Arnstein’s participation staircase (1969) “The degree of citizen participation ranges
community will design portions of the square by placing different elements representing needs and functions onto a map.
from the lowest form of involvement; information, to inform citizens of the agenda, through consultation, dialogue, decision
Using the workshop’s results a temporary design solution will be designed in one portion of the square and collect qualitative
making to the highest degree of participation: co-governance or co-creation” the second phase of the design process will
and quantitative data about the use and the users in the intervention. Knowing the users and uses of the space will allow the
work it’s way up the staircase towards co-creation. The interdisciplinary team has the ultimate goal of using the participation
team to focus, emphasize and ultimately dedicate resources to factors that make the design liveable and healthy based on how
process to bridge people from different social groups and design together a democratic public space that people want to use
the community understands and experiences the new design. Perceptions of a space vary among individuals as they interpret
and stay in. Designing a public space requires tailoring solutions to the local context in which they are intended, which again
and give meaning to the physical design and activities that are taking place. Giving people the opportunity to share their
require tapping into the local knowledge, resources and experiences of the citizens. Using the Abacus of Urban Objects as
experiences will help build and strengthen the identity of the neighborhood and the people within it.