28_666734at - Project Booklet by konkuristanbul

666734at

URBAN TAKSIM DESIGN

666734at

HOW IS TAKSIM? WHAT CONSTITUTES A PUBLIC SPACE? 2

TAKSIM URBAN DESIGN BETWEEN MEMORY, PERMANENT AND (CON)TEMPORARY

Public space constitutes at two levels; from fleeting and common performative action of people, and also via the spirit of the public and the political. Public spirit can be resilient only through a spatiality that grants the chance to last longer than the moment. Public space interconnects two driving forces, one the ephemeral and performative, and the other, stabilizing and solidifying. Public space is an outcome of conflicts and negotiations, accordingly, spatiality should protect negotiations, and be motivational and inspirational. PEOPLE MAKE PLACES, AS WELL AS PLACES INFLUENCE PEOPLE. Urban design shapes public space in the sense of ‘forming’ it. In the case of Taksim Square with a significant symbolic context already, the form needs to follow human movement and fulfill the missing parts. In the sense of informing, rather than instructing or dictating, urban design proposal initially focuses on reading the existing public space, including the evident or ghost traces. For new design solutions to overcome inadequacies and deficiencies while adapting to actual and contemporary needs, the missing and inefficient aspects of the Square, with its surroundings need to be documented and identified, including buildings framing it, the Gezi park, pedestrian and traffic connections, and its extensions along the north and south axis, of Elmadağ, Beyoğlu and Tarlabaşı, of the Atatürk Cultural Centre, because the square is a public space with its physical borders

666734at

WHAT CONSTITUTES PUBLIC SPACE? Public space constitutes at two levels; from fleeting and common performative action of people, and also via the spirit of the public and the political. Public spirit can be resilient only through a spatiality that grants the chance to last longer than the moment. Interconnecting two driving forces, one the ephemeral and performative, and the other, stabilizing and solidifying, public space is an outcome of conflicts and negotiations, accordingly, spatiality should protect negotiations, and be motivational and inspirational. People make places, as well as places influence people. Urban design shapes public space in the sense of ‘forming’ it. In the case of Taksim Square with a significant symbolic context already, the form needs to follow human movement and fulfill the missing parts. Intersection of the global and the local in Istanbul, the multi-layered place bear traces of the socio-cultural history. Depictive of Turkey and the country’s transition in time, Taksim has been the litmus of its time and policies. For new design solutions to overcome inadequacies and deficiencies, while adapting to actual and contemporary needs, the missing and inefficient aspects of the Square, with its surroundings need to be documented and identified, including buildings framing it; the Gezi park, pedestrian and traffic connections, and its extensions along the north and south axis, of Elmadağ, Beyoğlu and Tarlabaşı, and of the Atatürk Cultural Centre. In the sense of informing, rather than instructing or dictating, urban design proposal initially focuses on reading the existing public space, including the evident or ghost traces, the square being a public space with its physical borders, connections and memory.

RE-MIND MAP

666734at

RE-MIND MAP Read Perceive Understand Connote Actual Lost Escape Resist Wait Walk Way Stop Every Any Ways Traces Mind Collective Personal Accidental Planned Strategic Earth Time Water New Old Existence Missing Secretive Revealing Surface Daylight Dark Link Haphazard Coincidental Order Form Rhythm Border Passage Engage İnvolve Attach Interlink Of-f borders Access Arrive Stroll Flâneur Why I How Between Permanent Temporary Fast Forward Remote Constant Join Nod Connect Crossing Concept Chronology Visit Revisit Movement Layer Strada Excursion Street Tree Shopping Happenstance Meeting

Body Story Fraction Fragment Organic Geometric Linear Modern life Scale Speed Mobile Inspiration Play Art Established Vivre-ensemble Ritual Peacetime Rush Environment Human Rights Capital Aesthetics Democracy Common Space Place Property Infrastructure Target Intuitive Casualty Formal İnformal Object Other Vicinity Link Green Garden City-park Promenade Landscape Cityscape Definition Direction Function Vision Route Sign İdentify ıdentity Belonging Reality Possibility Permutation Curating Material Memory Architecture Multilayered Multidisciplinary Demography Social Economy Technology Methodology Resilience Continuity Durability Sustainability Consumer Urban Culture

Policy

URBAN MEMORY Byzantine period Area of hermitage

First map of Istanbul 1 4 2 2

Settlements outside city walls

1 5 72 Taksim gains a residential character

1 672

Ayas Pasha Cemetary 1 6 8 8 Major hub for city’s water distribution network Maksem

Mecidiye Barracks, Taskisla 1 8 4 8 Dolmabahçe Gasworks, Gazhane 1 8 5 3 Gumussuyu Barracks 1 8 6 1 Taksim Municipal Garden 1 8 6 5 Beginning of public transport in Istanbul Tunel -Taksim Tram

1871

Tunnel line with steam engine starts 1 8 7 5 Governors Oﬃce , German Consulate (today) 1 8 7 7

Aya Triada Church 1 8 8 0 Installation of Galata, Tepebasi, Istiklal Street tram line 1 8 83

Modern public transportation emerges at Taksim

31 March Incidents Renovation of Tunnel Beyoglu Station Influence of modernization Taksim Theater Maksim Music Hall Influence of Artillery Barracks’ transformation to stadium

Taksim Square begins to host official festivals Ghazi Day Celebration

Park Hotel Bridge toll at Galata Bridge called Mururiye is cancelled Land use plan of Istanbul by Henri Prost New symbols of the cultural & artistic productions Kristal Music Hall Perret’s Opera House Project Redesign of Municipal Gardens Taksim Municipal Music Hall Artillery Barracks’ demolition Tenis - Fencing - Mountaineering Club Pedestal of Inönü Monument

1 93 0 1 93 7 1 93 8 1 939

1940 1 9 43 1 9 43 1946 First Modern Stadium Inonu Stadium 1 9 47 Stage for the city’s culture & arts scene Cemil Topuzlı Open Air Theater 1 9 4 8 Gezi Park Pedestrian Bridge 1 9 49 19 50

First step to break the spatial continuity of the park Celebrations for Istanbul’s Liberation Official parade in Taksim Square September 6th-7th incidents Majority of non-Muslim citizens in Istanbul First metro project by French Company SGTE abandoned the county

1 9 5 6 Divan Hotel 1 9 5 6 Barbaros Boulevard is opened to traﬃc

1 9 6 0 Bayonet Sculpture Propagandistic monument of the military coup. 1 9 6 1 Tram’s farewell tour and first trolley buses go to traﬃc 1 9 6 5 Demolition of Kristal Music Hall

1 9 70 1973 1975

Demolition of Municipal Music Hall Harbiye Oﬃcer’s Club Second step disconnecting the park from the city Bloody Sunday Incident marking Taksim Square as a political stage Istanbul Cultural Palace Fire at Istanbul Cultural Palace Foundation stone for 1st Bosphorus Bridge is slayed Monument for the 50th Anniversary of Republic in Gezi Park Removal of Bayonet Sculpture Halicioglu Bridge Sheraton Hotel The Marmara Hotel Ataturk Library Bloody May Day Most massive rally in history to date. Demonstrations by Justice Part & Republican Party Biggest gatherings held by a political Square is closed to all demos and rallies

1 9 79 party until date. 1981 1 9 8 5 Tarlabasi Boulevard 1 9 8 6 Foundation stone for the first light metro system is layed 1 9 8 7 Demolition of Park Hotel

First Sea Buses 2nd Bosphorus Bridge & Taksim - 4 Levent metro line completed 1988 Demolition of Tenis - Fencing - Mountaineering Club 1 9 8 9 Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall Istiklal Street is closed to traﬃc and nostalgic tram started to operate 1 9 9 1 Swissotel Bosphorus 1 9 93 New Galata Bridge

1 9 9 5 Grand Hyatt Istanbul 1998 1 9 9 9 Suzer Plaza - Gokkafes Construction in the green space between Taksim and Maçka 2 0 0 0 UEFA Championship Celebrations in Taksim Square New Year Celebrations Taksim Square; popular location for celebrations Taksim - Levent Metro line

SYMBOL OF EVERYTHING

189 5 1909 1909 1914 1 92 0 1 92 1 modernization 1 92 3 First bus line between Beyazit & Taksim 1 92 7 New social order of the era Taksim Republican Monument 1 92 8 Taksim Armenian High School

SYMBOL OF NATION STATE

Macka Barracks 1 8 2 5

SYMBOL OF MODERNIZATION

1804

Ayas Pasha Cemetary 1 8 0 9

SYMBOL OF GLOBALISATION

Taksim gains a military character Artillery Barracks

19 55

1977

17 32

The French Consulate 179 4

1 9 5 1 Construction of D100 (E5) highway started 1 9 5 4 Hilton Hotel First modern building in International Style

1 9 69

POLITICAL STAGE

Map of Braun & Hogenberg 1 5 2 0

WHERE THE CITY ENDS

1453

SYMBOL OF WESTERNISATION

330

LAND OF HERMITAGE

666734at

2 0 0 3 G-Mall 2 0 0 4 Foundation stone for Marmaray is layed Kabataş - Eminönü Tramline 2 0 0 6 Taksim Residences Taksim - Kabataş Funicular line

2008 2 0 0 9 Taksim Şişhane Metro Station Istanbul Congress Center Held after 32 years for one last time 2 0 10 May Day Celebrations Taksim Square project announced 2 0 13 Gezi Protests Taksim Square; focal point of antigovernment demonstrations Marmaray construction is completed

2 0 1 6 Coup Attempt Taksim Square; ground zero for freedom 2 0 17 Taksim Mosque Contruction Starts Taksim Square gains another religious symbol

2 0 19 Ataturk Cultural Center reconstruction starts 2 0 2 0 Buluşma Durağı Taksim Competition

666734at

Considered as a pioneer of the French urbanism, Prostâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s master-plan imposed a heavy interventionist burden on historical structure of the city criticized by Le Corbusier in 1948.

MILITARY MUSEUM

666734at

MILITARY SCHOOL

CEMAL REŞIT REY CONCERT HALL

SPORTS AND EXHIBITION HALL HARBIYE OFFICERS CLUB

ISTANBUL CONGRESS CENTER OPEN AIR THEATER ITU MACKA CAMPUS

TRT RADIO BUILDING MAÇKA BARRACKS

HILTON HOTEL G-MALL

MACKA PARK ARIF PASA APARTMANI

DOLMABAHÇE GASWORKS

TAKSIM RESIDENCE TENNIS FENCING MOUNTAINERIING CLUB DIVAN HOTEL GEZI PARK PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

İNÖNÜ SCULPTURE

ITU TASKISLA

GRAND HYATT

MECIDIYE BARRACKS

SWISSOTEL THE BOSPHORUS

TAKSIM MUNICIPAL MUSIC HALL GÖKKAFES (SÜZER PLAZA) INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL SHERATON HOTEL

TAKSIM ARTILLERY BARRACKS

ATATÜRK KITAPLIĞI

KRISTAL MUSIC HALL

INONU STADIUM

DOLMABAHCE PALACE

GUMUSSUYU BARRACKS FLORISTS

TAKSIM WATER DISTRIBUITON CENTER (MAKSEM) FRENCH CONSULATE

BAYONET SCULPTURE TAKSIM REBUPLIC MONUMENT İSTANBUL CULTURAL PALACE (AKM) ETAP MARMARA TAKSIM THEATER HOTEL

AYA TRIADA CHURCH GERMAN CONSULATE TAKSIM ARMENIAN HIGH SCHOOL

PARK OTEL - PERA

KABATAS FERRY TERMINAL

Since the 19th century, Taksim has been one of the few places where the city dweller can breathe, although shaped in the limits of a didactic masterplan, the way people adopt, shape, use and manage the public space determine its meaning/s. Space is constructed in a relational way (Massey 1991). Who, how frequent, for how long, doing what, walking, idling, resting… uses the spaces? Beyond architectural and urban planning impacts, ‘meaning’ of Taksim Square - and its boundaries- is shaped by human practice, behaviors and collective memories. Constant reconfiguration of the space and its necessitating gives the character of Taksim Square; recognizing the dynamics of inclusion, particularly ensuring the means that allow individuals and communities to participate in urban life, experiences and practices introduced within the new design will produce new meanings. 7

666734at

URBAN APPROACH

GREEN BELT

666734at

Taksim’s location in the city has also been considered from the geomorphologic perspective. It is a relatively flat land on the ridge extending from Galata to the North. The city’s 19th and 20th century growth has basically depended on this setting, whereby Beyoğlu became the Central Business District of this new evolution, supported by İstiklal Caddesi and the tram route climbing from the Golden Horn leading the way to Taksim Square. Thanks to its geomorphologic location within the bounds of the city at the period, the water distribution structure was also located in Taksim, giving the district its name. Eventually, although the site offers suitable conditions, there are also problems arising from harsh geomorphologic conditions. To overcome these problems pedestrian movements and rail systems should be increased for smother access to the site.

Taksim Garden was connected to Park No. 2 with a pedestrian bridge built in 1949. Not intercepted by vehicle traffic, a promenade was at the center of the newly planned housing settlements. Park with continuous green space Park No. 2 (covering an area of 30 ha (74 acres) between the neighborhoods of Taksim, Nişantaşı and Maçka extending to Bosphorus including the Dolmabahçe Valley) converted into “Conference Valley”, constitutes a green corridor within the city and encompasses important cultural structures of the city. A second area was to be opened for settlement was the valley between Maçka and Beşiktaş, whereas a third was the area that descended from the slopes of Kurtuluş to Kasımpaşa. A viaduct to be constructed was to connect this new settlement directly to Taksim.

The foremost intention of the design is to create essential green belts and spots intervened within hard landscape and water elements that will draw the contours of pedestrian flow whilst allowing moments of pause via urban furniture as the prolongation of the setting.

CONNECTIONS / URBAN JUNCTION

SQUARE

SUBWAY ROUTE

PARK

TRAM ROUTE

GREENERY

RAILROAD STOPS

CULTURAL CENTERS

FERRY ROUTE

LAND ROUTE

FERRY STOPS

TUNNEL

DIRECTION ARROW

666734at

Pattern of streets, traffic and connections People from different areas, ages, social and ethnic backgrounds in the public realm is crucial for creating an integrated society and encouraging tolerance and a feeling of belonging; Taksim belongs to every İstanbul resident so that it needs to be easily accessible for all. The major buildings with their relevant urban functions and the streets they are located on will be enlivened: the new AKM and its extension, Gümüşsuyu Street, Mete Street, Atatürk Library, Taşkışla İTÜ, Intercontinental, Hyatt and Divan Hotels, bridges of the park, Cumhuriyet Street, Talimhane (1920’s first multi-storey apartment buildings now segregated hotel zone) , The Marmara, Aya Triada Church and its border now mainly occupied by several fast-food shops cornering Sıraselviler and İstiklal Street, Maksem and the new Mosque behind, the florist’s spot before Tarlabaşı Street. Greenery and trees of the Square will also spread to all connecting streets, in continuity.

INTER CITY CONNECTION BY GREEN EXPANSIONS

666734at

CITY CENTER:

666734at

NEITHER SQUARE NOR PARK

Tian

qua re

Time s Sq uare

re Squa Red

Trafa lg Squa ar re Piazza San Marco

Hyde Park

Hiy ib Par a k

en S

a de Plaç unya al Cat

Ke uk Cent e r Par nhof al Pa rk k

Par Gue k ll

anm

Stanley Park

TOO BIG FOR A SQUARE TOO SMALL FOR A PARK

+ THE SQUARE

= THE PARK

The notion of free spaces (les espaces libres) that Prost frequently used in his reports encompassed all public open spaces, including parks, promenades, esplanades, panoramic terraces, boulevards, as well as sports areas. As noted by Prost himself, green areas are regarded as an indispensable prerequisite of creating “healthy cities”.

666734at

BETTER SQUARE MORE PARK

666734at

Water

Green

Hardscape

Design Border

Urban Mass

Underground connections

subway - ataturk cultural center connection subway - taksim museum center connection taksim museum = ataturk cultural center connection

FRAGMENTS OF THE HOLISTIC DESIGN

Retractable stage over water element

Existing Stairs of Gezi Park

666734at

Maksem & Rest stop in front

Canopy for New Snack Stop

Canopy for Flower Market

Taksim Museum

Metro Access, Museum and Gallery Entrances from Cumhuriyet Boulevard

Urban Green Benches Freedom of Expression Stop & Graffiti Wall of Gezi Park

Free Walkways for pedestrians/ bicycles

Urban Panorama Terrace & Pedestrian Bridge Connecting Ataturk Library to Gezi Park

Urban Furniture

Playgrounds & Skate Park

666734at

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

666734at

BASEMENT FLOOR PLAN

666734at

A PLACE FOR EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING While globalism processes overwhelm the true meaning and cultural values of urban spaces in every city, Taksim Square need to welcome community engagement and social interactions allowing for encounters of diversities, establishing the ‘urban as urgent utopia’, as Lefebvre voices. As an initial step, Taksim Square need to wriggle out its uncanny void that is, most of the time, filled with passersby with no specific direction. Everyday interaction may smooth out differences; the physical meeting spaces of cultural, political, economic, social and individual means will born out of the democratic and welcoming approach, the space will evolve to with diversification as a result of flexible/adjustable program.

ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL The World Health Organization estimates that about 15% of the world population in the world live with some form of disability; over 80 million people stop participating in social and economic life; people over age 75 suffers disabilities; in addition, unprecedented demographic changes due to general aging of the world population, suggests that these figures will increase. Therefore, urban spaces should be actually accessible and respond to XXI century’s social needs.

666734at

WHAT MAKES AN URBAN PARK GOOD FOR PEOPLE

1_TAKSIM SQUARE 2_ADAPTABLE STAGE OVER WATER ELEMENT 3_TAKSIM MUSEUM 4_CUMHURIYET BOULEVARD 5_FLOWER MARKET 6_MAKSEM 7_PLAYGROUNDS 8_ATATURK LIBRARY CONNECTION

666734at

8 7 4 3 5

1_TAKSIM SQUARE

666734at

New Taksim Square

Taksim’s location in the city has also been considered from the geomorphologic perspective.

and optimized at all levels of the project, stretching out into the Square, and connecting streets as well.

Taksim can be perceived as a “place” only if it is free. Remaining the balance, the first condition of liberation is both a natural and a cultural climax that is to have a political field culturally, establishing a narrative for the coexistence of local residents and nature. < By nature of identity, place is political. > Being free is having a choice.

Eventually, although the site offers suitable conditions, there are also problems arising from harsh geomorphologic conditions. To overcome these problems pedestrian movements and rail systems should be increased for smother access to the site. Keeping the integrity of the park and its symmetrical original design (Jardins à la française) and retaining and enriching the trees, green will be enhanced

Extending from microcosms to macrocosms, this loose space - (Taksim), is conceptually and spatially embodied by the fluidity of the mental map in which the timeless superposition of states, programs and installations grow to be vital phenomena and build the cultural and conscientious belonging of the city dweller. That is why Taksim Square- which has become almost ghostly due to mental and physical discontinuities that have been postponed for decades- will be reconstructed in essential overlaps we anticipate, as if it were an organism.

2_ADAPTABLE STAGE OVER WATER ELEMENT

666734at

Multipurpose Platform, Public Pool

MOTION IN ARCHITECTURE: RETRACTABLE PERFORMANCE INFRASTRUCTURE Accessibility of urban public spaces absolutely determines the living conditions for people. Technology provides new opportunities. 21st century knowledge of mechanics, robotics and electrical systems allow for the new opportunities and opening up the unique structure. In terms of “retractable city”, located amidst the square, the performance platform contributes to the possibility of constructing alternative spatiality with efficient infrastructure that can be rationally managed and operated —without harming the environment, urban services and resources. In terms of spatiality, both human and urban level, maximizing the urban space whilst gaining an open air facility for shows, concerts, theaters, exhibitions and various performances. Endeavoring to find urban forms that can accommodate present day ways of life and at the same time maintain the qualities of the customary urban patterns, the platform will establish urban relationships within the urban tissue, without impeding regular flow. Awarding the freedom to make and re-make and without occupying the plot permanently, the performance stage will set a pioneer sample during pandemic(s), communicating the citizens at outdoors. Extending the greenery and adding to the softscape, a green stair-amphi will be annexed to the existing set of stairs, facing the Square; the interpretation is a provision for the performance setting designed amidst the square.

666734at

Multipurpose Platform, Public Stage

3_TAKSIM MUSEUM

666734at

Taksim Museum, view from Gezi Park

Taksim Museum, view from Mete Street

Taksim Museum, view from the square

666734at

Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Main Gallery Space

666734at

MUSEUM OF TAKSIM is planned as a sunken structure above which a reflection pool is symmetrizing the trees, the sky and the people, on the axis of the marble stairs towards the Square with upper level access , also with an alternative entrance next to Metroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, on Cumhuriyet Street. Through the transparent base of the reflection pool, its atrium receives daylight as well as the shade and the moves of the leaves of trees of Gezi Park. The crucial threshold is when the encounter of Art goes beyond the showcases in the very physical space; formally separated from the rest of the life in the Park. and beyond. On the contrary The Encounter with Art ought to be a dynamic process not a static geometrical space with dropped down structures. The Encounter with Art and Times ought to transcends its own walls and its own roof, as it is leasable also in the architectural design: The distinctive organic lines of the state-ofthe-art design integrates the building in the Park, without overwhelming any other structure.

666734at

Ground Floor Plan

First Floor Plan 30

4_CUMHURIYET BOULEVARD

666734at

View from Cumhuriyet Street; Green Boulevard Entrances from the corner of Taksim Square

View from Cumhuriyet Street; Green Boulevard

BUFFER ZONE Benefiting level difference (again) on the Cumhuriyet Street which will be green boulevard by afforestation, the edge of the park is allocated for shops and kiosks with a cantilever extending from the park to form their roof system. Streets, squares and parks are not the only public spaces but public life takes place also in the markets, bus stops, metro stations and all kinds of public events, all of which offering varying degrees of interaction that

may also be “small-scale meetings” in these everyday places, which can generate a wide range of economic and social transactions. Social interaction, encoded into ‘different daily routines and practices’ define the notion and the role of the urban space. Variations in the physical manifestation generate variety in movement and people, thus social meaning, as well.

666734at

TOURIST INFO,SOUVENIR SHOPS&CAFE-BAR Cumhuriyet Street

5_FLOWER MARKET

666734at

Located at the corner, the existing florists will be sheltered under a light structure.

6_MAKSEM

666734at

MAKSEM Taksim described in the 17th and 18th centuries as a region comprised of a water distribution center, backing the Maksem ,the seating units beneath the trees before Ä°stiklal will also serve as a waiting, meeting and relaxing zone for the community of new mosque who come to pray.

7_PLAYGROUNDS

666734at

In sharp contrast to old Istanbul’s social atmosphere of restrictive traditional norms and customs, the vivid symbol of a youthful, progressive and modern Turkish republic, Taksim became the place where men and women could mix and participate equally in an atmosphere of social and recreational activities. İnönü Promenade, for example, was a place where men and women freely enjoyed a mixed social life, one not possible in the traditional neighborhoods of old Istanbul in the 1930s and 1940s. Women stroll in the Gezi Park with their kids, as in Western countries of the date. Respecting the basics, playground for kids allocated closeby the skatepark and graffiti zone. Moreover, including shallow pools and water play sprinklers alternative palaygrounds are encouraged in the park and in the Square.

SKATE PARK

Skateparks are unique among sport facilities. These evolving hybrid places in a continuing dialogue with the city under which they are geographically and politically contained. Being the hybrid element of the city, the goal is to allow younger generation a platform for self-expression and get together with friends, moreover, for diverse people to encounter around a spectacle. 35

8_ GENERATING CONNECTIONS TO ATATURK LIBRARY

666734at

View from Pedestrian Bridge Connecting Ataturk Library to Gezi Park

666734at

PARK AS AN URBAN GUIDE Keeping the integrity of the park and its symmetrical original design (Jardins à la française) trees retained and enriched. The green enhanced and optimized at all levels , stretching out into the Square, and connecting streets as well. Considering long-term management of green areas perennial herbs and flowers may be a feasible choice. Lawns look attractive, but they also choke out biodiversity and can require environmentally questionable practices to maintain. As climate change becomes more and more urgent, these grassy plots only make things worse. “Grass-free lawn”, with only low-growing plants, create the same effect as a lawn, and you can walk on it. That becomes an urban meadow. NEW PERENNIAL MOVEMENT In naturalistic planting design is about making gardens in symbiosis with nature. It calls for a wilder aesthetic, attuned to ecology, and informed by horticulture. People from different areas, ages, social and ethnic backgrounds in the public realm is crucial for creating an integrated society and encouraging tolerance and a feeling of belonging; Taksim belongs to every İstanbul resident so that it needs to be easily accessible for all. The major buildings with their relevant urban functions and the streets they are located on will be enlivened: these are Gümüşsuyu Street, Mete Street, Atatürk Library, Taşkışla İTÜ, Intercontinental, Hyatt and Divan Hotels, existing bridges of the park, Cumhuriyet Street, Talimhane (1920’s first multi-storey apartment buildings now segregated hotel zone) , The Marmara, Aya Triada Church and its border now mainly occupied by several fast-food shops cornering Sıraselviler and İstiklal Street, Maksem and the new Mosque behind, the florist’s spot before Tarlabaşı Street. The new AKM and its extension will naturally join the green square, the park and facilities like Taksim Museum, outdoor sculpture and installations and movement of citizens.

666734at

LANDSCAPE

666734at

BOARDS

666734at

TAKSIM URBAN DESIGN BETWEEN MEMORY, PERMANENT AND (CON)TEMPORARY

666734at

Tian an

Squa re

Squa re Red

Squa re Times

Trafalg Squa ar re

Stanley Park

Piazza San Marco

Hyde Park

Hiy ib Park a

a de Plaรง nya lu Cata

Ke uk Centr e Park nhof al Pa

Park Guel l

men

TOO BIG FOR A SQUARE TOO SMALL FOR A PARK

THE SQUARE

THE PARK

41 1

BETTER SQUARE BETTER PARK

666734at

42 1

666734at

SQUARE PARK

666734at

New Taksim Square

Multipurpose Platform, Public Pool

Retractable stage over water element

Existing Stairs of Gezi Park

Maksem & Rest stop in front

Multipurpose Platform, Public Stage

Canopy for New Snack Stop

Canopy for Flower Market

Taksim Museum

Metro Access, Museum and Gallery Entrances from Cumhuriyet Boulevard

New Taksim Square Urban Green Benches Freedom of Expression Stop & Graffiti Wall of Gezi Park

Free Walkways for pedestrians/ bicycles

Urban Panorama Terrace & Pedestrian Bridge Connecting Ataturk Library to Gezi Park

Urban Furniture

Playgrounds & Skate Park

43 1

666734at

TAKSIM MUSEUM

666734at

Taksim Museum, view from Gezi Park

Taksim Museum, view from Mete Street

Taksim Museum, view from the square

Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Main Gallery Space Ground Floor Plan

44 1

666734at

CUMHURIYET STREET GREEN BOULVARD

666734at

View from Cumhuriyet Street; Green Boulevard Entrances from the corner of Taksim Square

TOURIST INFO,SOUVENIR SHOPS&CAFE-BAR Cumhuriyet Street

View from Cumhuriyet Street; Green Boulevard

BUFFER ZONE Benefiting level difference (again) on the Cumhuriyet Street which will be green boulevard by afforestation, the edge of the park is allocated for the entrance of the Museum (alternative to park entrance) next to an art gallery that also connects to the metro access as well as small shops and kiosks under a roof system extending from the park.

While globalism processes overwhelm the true meaning and cultural values of urban spaces in every city, Taksim Square need to welcome community engagement and social interactions allowing for encounters of diversities, establishing the ‘urban as urgent utopia’, as Lefebvre voices.

As an initial step, Taksim Square need to wriggle out its uncanny void that is, most of the time, filled with passersby with no specific direction. Everyday interaction may smooth out differences; the physical meeting spaces of cultural, political, economic, social and individual means will born out of the democratic and welcoming approach, the space will evolve to with diversification as a result of flexible/adjustable program.

Social interaction, encoded into ‘different daily routines and practices’ define the notion and the role of the urban space. Variations in the physical manifestation generate variety in movement and people, thus social meaning, as well.

BB Section

45 1

666734at

CONNECTING VALUES

666734at

View from Pedestrian Bridge Connecting Ataturk Library to Gezi Park

View from Ataturk Library

A true urban public place is “nearby” for everyone. Despite changes and interventions over decades, Taksim is the hearth of İstanbul; bounded by thoroughfares and urban facilities on all sides, the PARK-SQUARE surely communicates “publicness”, maintaining its strong identity. The presence of Cultural Center and monuments also reinforces its public character. Enhanced trees, grass, walkways and seating element being the basics, the park is efficient and simple in principle and not overdesigned as the central city park must fundamentally provide safety and a clean, well maintained environment that satisfy the needs of a broad range of users, especially for the people who needed space the most!

Taksim described in the 17th and 18th centuries as a region comprised of a water distribution center, backing the Maksem ,the seating units beneath the trees before İstiklal will also serve as a waiting, meeting and relaxing zone for the community of new mosque who come to pray. Located at the corner, the existing florists will be sheltered under a light structure. Border of Aya Triada Church Across Maksem, forming the other corner of İstiklal, jazzed up with Istanbul’s famous snack shops, will gather these snack-stops under a cantilever, also, the corner terrace space will be gained for a cup of coffee, again.

46 1

666734at

PROJECT

REPORT

666734at

Taksim Urban Design Competition, Phase II BETWEEN MEMORY, PERMANENT AND (CON) TEMPORARY Public space constitutes at two levels; from fleeting and common performative action of people, and also via the spirit of the public and the political. Public spirit can be resilient only through a spatiality that grants the chance to last longer than the moment. Interconnecting two driving forces, one the ephemeral and performative, and the other, stabilizing and solidifying, public space is an outcome of conflicts and negotiations, accordingly, spatiality should protect negotiations, and be motivational and inspirational. People make places, as well as places influence people. Urban design shapes public space in the sense of ‘forming’ it. In the case of Taksim Square with a significant symbolic context already, the form needs to follow human movement and fulfill the missing parts. Intersection of the global and the local in Istanbul, the multi-layered place bear traces of the socio-cultural history. Depictive of Turkey and the country's transition in time, Taksim has been the litmus of its time and policies. The ‘urban agenda’ built on principles of recognition, integration, and observation. For new design solutions to overcome inadequacies and deficiencies, while adapting to actual and contemporary needs, the missing and inefficient aspects of the Square, with its surroundings need to be documented and identified, including buildings framing it; the Gezi park, pedestrian and traffic connections, and its extensions along the north and south axis, of Elmadağ, Beyoğlu and Tarlabaşı, and of the Atatürk Cultural Centre. In 1996, Habitat II which is realized in Istanbul, the “City Summit,” brought culture into global debates on urbanization. Culture was recognized as an integral part of people’s well-being, and local development and equity were linked with acknowledging diversity in cultural heritages and values. In the sense of informing, rather than instructing or dictating, urban design proposal initially focuses on reading the existing public space, including the evident or ghost traces, the square being a public space with its physical borders, connections and memory. Aiming sustainable communities and to maintain a constructive dialogue in designing the public space is as important as environmental betterment and sustainability in terms of material, maintenance and nature-friendly methods.

Located at the base of the eco-systemic links among ecology, economics, politics, and social fabric, culture is the right to experience knowledge, beauty, and reciprocity. A core element in local urban policies, culture is also a commodity and a “resource to attract investments and improve branding” are recognizing only a limited number of cultural manifestations.

666734at

Who, how frequent, for how long, doing what, walking, idling, resting… uses the spaces? Space is constructed in a relational way (Massey 1991). Since the 19th century, Taksim has been one of the few places where the city dweller can breathe, although shaped in the limits of a didactic masterplan, the way people adopt, shape, use and manage the public space determine its meaning/s. Urban opportunities include the circulation of knowledge. Beyond architectural and urban planning impacts, ‘meaning’ of Taksim Square - and its boundaries- is shaped by human practice, behaviors and collective memories. . How would the novel approach would heal the relations? An urban environment embraced by greenery is the initial target. Likewise, cultural matters are integral parts of our lives, enhancing living standards, so that culture is at the heart of sustainable city. Inclusion of nature, art and collective open platforms for all, initiates healthy, equitable and democratic urban development. Constant reconfiguration of the space and its necessitating gives the character of Taksim Square; recognizing the dynamics of inclusion, particularly ensuring the means that allow individuals and communities to participate in urban life, experiences and practices introduced within the new design will produce new meanings. The Gezi (Promenade) Park is located in lieu of the former site of the Halil Pasha Artillery Barracks, constructed nearby the "Frank and Armenian graveyard (Grand Champs des Morts), in 1806 with an extensive open drill-ground. Transformed into Taksim Stadium in 1921, the barracks were demolished between 1939 and 1940 as part of Henri Prost's plans to build Taksim Gezi Park, completed in 1943. Starting from Taksim Square entrance, geometrically designed esplanade ended with Taksim Garden designed in a free style with meandering roads, contrasting with the geometrical layout of the esplanade. Considered as a pioneer of the French urbanism, Prost's master-plan imposed a heavy interventionist burden on historical structure of the city criticized by Le Corbusier in 1948. The notion of free spaces (les espaces libres) that Prost frequently used in his reports encompassed all public open spaces, including parks, promenades, esplanades, panoramic terraces, boulevards, as well as sports areas. As noted by Prost himself, green areas are regarded as an indispensable prerequisite of creating “healthy cities”. The foremost intention of the design is to create essential green belts and spots intervened within hard landscape and water elements that will draw the contours of pedestrian flow, enlivened by art works and social grounds, whilst allowing moments of pause via urban furniture as the prolongation of the setting.

666734at

By endowing the Taksim Square with green, the Gezi Park will expand and come alive; merging with the intensified and diversified Gezi Park, the new Taksim Square, will become a resourceful urban green that breathes new life into İstanbul. Greenery and trees of the Square will widely spread to all connecting streets, in continuity. The project brings nature to people at various levels and makes life peaceful and healthier. Park as an urban guide Keeping the integrity of the park and its symmetrical original design (Jardins à la française) and retaining and enriching the trees, green will be enhanced and optimized at all levels of the project, stretching out into the Square, and connecting streets as well. Taksim can be perceived as a "place" only if it is free. Remaining the balance, the first condition of liberation is both a natural and a cultural climax that is to have a political field culturally, establishing a narrative for the coexistence of local residents and nature. < By nature of identity, place is political. > Being free is having a choice. Extending from microcosms to macrocosms, this loose space - (Taksim), is conceptually and spatially embodied by the fluidity of the mental map in which the timeless superposition of states, programs and installations grow to be vital phenomena and build the cultural and conscientious belonging of the city dweller. That is why Taksim Square- which has become almost ghostly due to mental and physical discontinuities that have been postponed for decades- will be reconstructed in essential overlaps we anticipate, as if it were an organism. Taksim landscape, integrated with İnönü Gezisi and Maçka Park number 2, has been discussed as a new nature pattern liberated from baroque annexes and free from impositions. The new square will transform into a therapy area with a water level wall, florists and niche gardens; become an effective area of memory especially for younger people and urbanites of all ages with the inclusion of Akm activities, art, daily bustle, recreation, activities, pop-up elements etc. Durable trees tolerant of urban stresses and poor soils, and also adaptable to acid or alkaline soil is suitable for the city park. The plots granting adequate growing space will be planted with new trees. All the botanical material applied in the field consists of symbolic plant special to İstanbul; the most important trees of the Istanbul image, pine pine (pinus pinea), erguan (cercis siliquastrum), lime (tilia tomentosa), eastern plane tree (platanus oriantalis) and for the sub-texture gramamines and natural meadow textures as. The design, which cares about the sensitivity of human biorhythm to all seasons, puts the change of nature in the foreground in all seasons. Considering long-term management of green areas perennial herbs and flowers is the feasible choice, ecologically as well. Low maintenance planting by use of water-wise, resistant plants, like perennial flowers, shrubs, succulents, creeper plants and native species, and application of water conservation and collecting methods will support a balanced design that would also allow hardscape water to flow into softscape that is designed to absorb excess water, since additional features, such as reflection pools and water play sprinklers will be integrated in the design. New Perennial movement in naturalistic planting design is about making gardens in symbiosis with nature. It calls for a wilder aesthetic, attuned to ecology, and informed by horticulture.

666734at

Color, texture and effect Instead of homogeneous heterogeneous landscape is more sustainable and more economical. Various platforms, corners and rest-stops surrounded by greenery designed to accommodate a range of social and cultural activities within the park, supporting fluent and meaningful connections between them. Lunchtime picnics are expected to become daily events on the sprawling green lawn. Upon a deeper analysis of the park, the Square, Cumhuriyet Caddesi and other relevant extensions, the most suitable species will be planted or transplanted, align with the architectural design scheme and landscape approach. Museum Museum of Taksim is planned as a sunken structure above which a reflection pool is symmetrizing the trees, the sky and the people, on the axis of the marble stairs towards the Square with upper level access , also with an alternative entrance next to Metro's, on Cumhuriyet Street. Through the transparent base of the reflection pool, its atrium receives daylight as well as the shade and the moves of the leaves of trees of Gezi Park. “Taksim Museum is a space where people pass through an experience of time tunnel where each experience is individualized as per interaction. Taksim Museum goes beyond the traditional notion of a museum by turning the rather static institution into a dynamic platform for art, culture, and urban history as integral part of its public environment. Its pluralist character combines the collection of historical knowledge with changing temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. The new architectural and land scape of the Park suggests parity in the proportions of the space relative to the publicness of people. Consequently, the challenge of our concept encourages a distance from the objectivity of dropped down-art and our and the objective is to promote an encounter with art that merges with the ever-changing dynamic of Taksim in every day’s life. The concept of curation is spread throughout the architectural space created in four levels from the roof the to the ground floors. A smooth slope of leads the visitors on a path of artistic experiment mashed in architectural design: First, the encounter with Art and Times happen in an archive that accumulates facts and provides and interactive history of knowledge: So, one part of the museum will be dedicated to creating an archive-like collection of knowledge about the history of Taksim Place and its close urban surrounding. Here, a team of researchers, academics, designers, and artists create a dynamic collective memory for one of Istanbul’s important urban centers. This archive will become the collection of the museum and it will be shared in democratic, interactive and participatory ways. The second part of the museum will be a gathering of new visions of contemporary art. The section will be dedicated to temporary and changing solo exhibitions and group shows of national and international artists. In different galleries of various sizes, according to certain curatorial frameworks of a team of prominent curators, the state of today’s art, as well as pressing topics of society will be reviewed through the presentation of important artists and their strong works in appealing exhibitions.

666734at

The third part of the museum is dedicated to art’s education and mediation. Here, using the latest pedagogical methods and strategies, various age groups from numerous social backgrounds will learn in workshops, seminars and talks about the history and present of the city as well as about the vivid status quo of today’s art and culture. Finally, The Colors of the Bosphorus at Taksim Square is designed as to create an everchanging spectacle from the pool-roof of the Museum: It symbolizes the independent individual flux of people in Taksim, its connection to the stream of the Bosporus and the independent voice of people before their sight. The Colors of the Bosphorus at Taksim Square is a potential branding value with international recognition. It will neutralize the ideological forces on Art and would in that respect, support the concept of the Museum, as proposed by ever-changing colors of the Bosphorus which will assure in its turn, an everchanging experiment at Taksim Museum of Art and Times, 360 days and nights. This will connect and converge people of different cultures geographies, beliefs and will diffuse a global discourse between the place, the space and people through art. In the end, the museum emerges as a land mark of the Square and of the City. The crucial threshold is when the encounter of Art goes beyond the showcases in the very physical space; formally separated from the rest of the life in the Park. and beyond. On the contrary The Encounter with Art ought to be a dynamic process not a static geometrical space with dropped down structures. The Encounter with Art and Times ought to transcends its own walls and its own roof, as it is leasable also in the architectural design: The distinctive organic lines of the state-of-the-art design integrates the building in the Park, without overwhelming any other structure. This respiratory system of convergence and diffusion of art in to an open World, will enable people to breath with art freely and without boundaries and formal distances. Various experimental installations, happenings, contents, curated with interactive art concepts will replace the dropped- structures of representative formal art. All will change in the flux of Time as it happens in Taksim. Art will emancipate Time to be imprisoned in a box of ideological and populist stagnation. The museum’s interconnection with the park is not only established through its architectural character and the placement within the center of the park but also through the conduction of time and site-specific artworks in Gezi Park’s public sphere. Instead of traditional drop-down sculptures which have no conceptual or formal relation with their surroundings, the artworks will be created especially for the park in certain assigned spots. These sculptures and installations will follow the strategies of relational aesthetic and participatory practice, and so adapt to the dynamic character of the museum, to the flux of Istanbul and to the contemporary state of the art world. Art being all over the Park, will converge with all parts of the country, and with far away geographies Art at Taksim will converge people of the world with new technologies (i.e. Colors of the Bosporus @ Milan, @ Berlin, @ Vienna, @ Trabzon, or Colors of Tiber @ Taksim, Colors of La Seine @ Taksim, Colors of Hudson@ Taksim, Firat @Taksim, Menderes @ Taksim….). The Taksim Museum will converge “Many Worlds in One Square” and will open “From One Square” as times goes by. In fact, the concept of encounter with Art in the whole Park is Gezi Park as recreation area, restaurants, and museum shops will invite the visitors of the museum and the park to relax and contemplate, and so strengthen the connection between the people of Istanbul (and of the world) and the institution. The concept of the museum is conceived to be a magnet that convergence difference and redistributes it beyond objective of be the most secular and democratic encounter with art and times.

666734at

Retractable Performance Infrastructure: Motion in architecture Extending the greenery and adding to the softscape, a green stair-amphi will be annexed to the existing set of stairs, facing the Square; the interpretation is a provision for the performance setting designed amidst the square. Between AKM and the Square, the reflection pool is designed to alternate with a retractable platform to serve as an open air public stage. Accessibility of urban public spaces absolutely determines the living conditions for people. Technology provides new opportunities. 21st century knowledge of mechanics, robotics and electrical systems allow for the new opportunities and opening up the unique structure. In terms of "retractable city", located amidst the square, the performance platform contributes to the possibility of constructing alternative spatiality with efficient infrastructure that can be rationally managed and operated without harming the environment, urban services and resources. In terms of spatiality, both human and urban level, maximizing the urban space whilst gaining an open air facility for shows, concerts, theaters, exhibitions and various performances. Endeavoring to find urban forms that can accommodate present day ways of life and at the same time maintain the qualities of the customary urban patterns, the platform will establish urban relationships within the urban tissue, without impeding regular flow. Awarding the freedom to make and re-make and without occupying the plot permanently, the performance stage will set a pioneer sample during pandemic(s), communicating the citizens at outdoors. Installations The narrative of ecology, and the feelings an ecological perspective may provoke, may serve as inspiration for the aesthetic challenge facing the architect, and moreover inspire the artists. Align with the memory of the place, the topography and routes of the park lead to creative production. The project proposes to open art, and especially landscape artist, a plot to express the place and themselves. Site-specific work of art is designed for a specific location, with substantial meaning. The term site-specific is often used in relation to installation art, as in site-specific installation; and land art is site-specific almost by definition. Art act as historyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public bookmarks witness reality and reach generations. Digital and physical experiences will be part of the park, with reference to memories, desires and dreams. Fluid, interactive, durable, and intended to prompt deep moments in each viewer the works can be dynamic visualizations, kinetic sculptures, installations etc.

666734at

Public art Taksim has always been the social and cultural center of the city, mainly since the republican period.

666734at

Taksim Gazinosu (Municipal Club by RĂźknettin GĂźney, 1938-40, demolition 1965 later Sheraton/ now Ceylan Intercontinental Hotel constructed in 1968) was built on the northeastern corner of the park.

The inclusion of public art within the park is encouraged, including competitions. There will be public arts and social platforms in lieu of (once) Taksim Gazinosu's location. Free expression spot, graffiti circle and open-air shelter for get-togethers Cultural vitality is an absolute necessity to city life because it permeates all spheres of living and lies at the foundation of freedoms, the public exchange of ideas, and societal wellbeing. These dimensions infuse meaningful sustainable development, which is experienced at a local level and requires local spaces for public debate and decision-making. It is vital for local governments to provide environments that actively encourage public, democratic debate and decision-making. Indeed, they must create spaces where the citizens can exercise their rights, expand their abilities, lead the present, and decide on the future.

Soapbox or study

Digital art wall Skate Park

Gather around a wall of graffiti

666734at

Benefiting 1 meter level difference grass seating born out of topography that reach the urban "plateau" overlooking the Bopshorus. Providing an extensive view of the Bosporus, Urban terrace by the edge of the park before the pedestrian bridge linking the park to Elmadag, will be revived. Nearby the plot, Pedestrian Bridge designed crossing over Mete Caddesi, that also works as a viewing platform. The paths of the park extends to Ataturk Library, an extension Promenade created by stripping off the wall segregating the building and the institution from the city center, limiting the pedestrian access. Terrace of arts and design The terrace rise above the steps at the Taksim Square Entrance, according to the original design, aiming to view the ceremonies held at the square and to create a monumental entrance to the park. As part of this terrace space, landscape art installations is proposed to mingle with art/design objects

666734at

used as benches in surprising forms. Both for installations and art objects as urban furniture, competitions recommended, even repeated in certain periods.

Site specific and land art by Beverly Pepper

Venice Biennale 2019 by Jeppe Hein

Viewers' setting / Square seating Multi-functional and various combinations of simple and efficient built-in urban furniture as part of hard landscape and benches to relax will be designed and made by locally sourced sustainable materials and products. Holistic sustainable features, including lighting capacity, will carry the green into the solid, as an extension to the adjacent habitat of Gezi Park. URBAN Lighting There’s something magical about city lights that influence perceptions, feelings, and even behavior. Besides aesthetic it's an issue of ensuring safety and orientation. The safer the lighting, the longer people will stroll through the streets or sit outside. Illuminating the urban spaces, durable and low maintenance, hidden elements of lightning will be preferred. Considering illumination of installations, self-lit seating elements, art objects and light diffusing from the museum and neighboring buildings, such as AKM and its culture street, lighting design will balance the city lights and the Concerned about security & crime prevention, enhanced surveillance, ample lighting and compatible planting - not taller than 1 meter- is recommended. The light on the underside of the museum roof, makes it more inviting, also the letters of the "Taksim Museum" signage will add the light condition. More importantly, the sunken floors of the museum will receive sunlight and spectacular colors and moods in line with changing atmosphere conditions. Vicinity and connections People from different areas, ages, social and ethnic backgrounds in the public realm is crucial for creating an integrated society and encouraging tolerance and a feeling of belonging; Taksim belongs to every İstanbul resident so that it needs to be easily accessible for all. The major buildings with their relevant urban functions and the streets they are located on will be enlivened: these are Gümüşsuyu Street, Mete Street, Atatürk Library, Taşkışla İTÜ, Intercontinental, Hyatt and Divan Hotels, existing bridges of the park, Cumhuriyet Street, Talimhane (1920's first multistorey apartment buildings now segregated hotel zone) , The Marmara, Aya Triada Church and its border now mainly occupied by several fast-food shops cornering Sıraselviler and İstiklal Street, Maksem and the new Mosque behind, the florist's spot before Tarlabaşı Street. The new AKM and its extension will naturally join the green square, the park and facilities like Taksim Museum, outdoor sculpture and installations and movement of citizens.

666734at

1962, round-about Maksem Taksim described in the 17th and 18th centuries as a region comprised of a water distribution center, backing the Maksem ,the seating units beneath the trees before Ä°stiklal will also serve as a waiting, meeting and relaxing zone for the community of new mosque who come to pray. Located at the corner, the existing florists will be sheltered under a light structure.

Teras kahveler , terrace coffee houses,1939 Border of Aya Triada Church Across Maksem, forming the other corner of Ä°stiklal, jazzed up with Istanbul's famous snack shops, will gather these snack-stops under a cantilever, also, the corner terrace space will be gained for a cup of coffee, again.

Buffer zone Benefiting level difference (again) on the Cumhuriyet Street which will be green boulevard by afforestation, the edge of the park is allocated for the entrance of the Museum (alternative to park entrance) next to an art gallery that also connects to the metro access as well as small shops and kiosks under a roof system extending from the park.

666734at

Streets, squares and parks are not the only public spaces but public life takes place also in the markets, bus stops, metro stations and all kinds of public events, all of which offering varying degrees of interaction that may also be "small-scale meetings" in these everyday places, which can generate a wide range of economic and social transactions. Social interaction, encoded into ‘different daily routines and practices’ define the notion and the role of the urban space. Variations in the physical manifestation generate variety in movement and people, thus social meaning, as well. A place for everyone and everything While globalism processes overwhelm the true meaning and cultural values of urban spaces in every city, Taksim Square need to welcome community engagement and social interactions allowing for encounters of diversities, establishing the ‘urban as urgent utopia’, as Lefebvre voices. As an initial step, Taksim Square need to wriggle out its uncanny void that is, most of the time, filled with passersby with no specific direction. Everyday interaction may smooth out differences; the physical meeting spaces of cultural, political, economic, social and individual means will born out of the democratic and welcoming approach, the space will evolve to with diversification as a result of flexible/adjustable program.

Park with continuous green space Park No. 2 (covering an area of 30 ha (74 acres) between the neighborhoods of Taksim, Nişantaşı and Maçka extending to Bosphorus including the Dolmabahçe Valley) converted into " Conference Valley", constitutes a green corridor within the city and encompasses important cultural structures of the city. A second area was to be opened for settlement was the valley between Maçka and Beşiktaş, whereas a third was the area that descended from the slopes of Kurtuluş to Kasımpaşa. A viaduct to be constructed was to connect this new settlement directly to Taksim. Basic Principles of Planning Location, pattern of streets, traffic and inter-city access Taksim’s location in the city has also been considered from the geomorphologic perspective.

666734at

It is a relatively flat land on the ridge extending from Galata to the North. The city’s 19th and 20th century growth has basically depended on this setting, whereby Beyoğlu became the Central Business District of this new evolution, supported by İstiklal Caddesi and the tram route climbing from the Golden Horn leading the way to Taksim Square. Thanks to its geomorphologic location within the bounds of the city at the period, the water distribution structure was also located in Taksim, giving the district its name. Eventually, although the site offers suitable conditions, there are also problems arising from harsh geomorphologic conditions. To overcome these problems pedestrian movements and rail systems should be increased for smother access to the site.

Access What is critical in this process is that the ridge has two deep valleys; one on the West (Dolapdere) and the other (Maçka Valley) on the east. Being advantageous location vise, there has always been a problem in connecting to the Square. The south - north spine seems to be more suitable in this respect, against the East – West connections. The design of Taksim Cumhuriyet Meydanı and Gezi Parkı are the two big achievements of the new Republican administration. In this respect it is site which requires climbing from almost all directions. The locality needs rail oriented to be accessible. The Nostalgic Tram, subway, and Kabataş funiculars all have created good connections at the city scale.

666734at

To further make the Square more accessible, the nostalgic tram line may be extended to Harbiye, Taşkışla – Maçka cable line and similar arrangements should be considered to increase connection with Dolapdere Valley via Taksim – Dolapdere Caddesi and the existing urban fabric along the valley. This might also induce transformation on the Dolapdere locality. Planning Principles Square: Park + Plaza Basically the Suare is made up of Cumhuriyet Square containing the Cumhuriyet Monument and Gezi Pakı, built on a highly elevated platform. The site’s perimeter is clear, there is a line of buildings defining the square. The problem is the arrangement of the square. The Cumhuriyet Meydanı is not a plaza, and Gezi Parkı is on an elevated platform causing alienation. The design of the park is too monumental with huge stairs arising from Cumhuriyet Meydanı and its interior is over orthogonal. One of the requirements of the competition is the provision of public communication and democratic expression of the individual. Still another character that should be sought is described as time and event continuum. These two items have become critical in developing the design principles of the Taksim phenomenon. The basic principles of design have been formulated upon the discussions made above. • • • • • •

• •

Taksim Square (Cumhuriyet Meydanı and Gezi Park) should be made more accessible from both the city and the nearby neighborhoods by increasing pedestrian and rail transport opportunities. This is crucial in making a day and night living environment. Unrestricted movements of the people are aimed to continue with their daily life patterns, move freely without the restrictions of walls, stairs and hard surfaces. The project has the capacity to improve low income population residing along the Dolapdere Valley. The existence of universities, provisions to provoke them to be in the park and easing movement patters for the elderly living in vicinity are main objectives of design. The meydan and park should be integrated to further enhance green area coverage as the main blending element. The Gezi Park should turn into an area permeable from all directions to further vitality, connectedness and expression of the human self. The negative effects of walls, stairs and established hard surfaces should be broken to enhance penetration of the people from all directions and move freely in the park, convene, or just walk in the park, to the routes connecting the park to the near surrounding. Provision of event history in the park will serve also to free and unregulated of the people enjoying the freedom provided, and still being informed on the past stories of the park and square. The museum and convention building replaces some of the monumental stair structures, still providing the necessary transparency for the continuity of the green fabric.

666734at

•

In implementation, the private lands and structures are preserved. All improvements are to be accomplished on public lands.

In conclusion, the project aims to reproduce the Taksim Square as a new agent, liberating freedom of movement, connecting the people for democratic expression, integrating different social groups and creating awareness by the public of Taksim and its history and the events that produced it.

What makes a city park work? A true urban public place is “nearby” for everyone. Despite changes and interventions over decades, Taksim is the hearth of İstanbul; bounded by thoroughfares and urban facilities on all sides, the PARKSQUARE surely communicates "publicness", maintaining its strong identity. The presence of Cultural Center and monuments also reinforces its public character. Enhanced trees, grass, walkways and seating element being the basics, the park is efficient and simple in principle and not overdesigned as the central city park must fundamentally provide safety and a clean, well maintained environment that satisfy the needs of a broad range of users, especially for the people who needed space the most! Accessible for all The World Health Organization estimates that about 15% of the world population in the world live with some form of disability; over 80 million people stop participating in social and economic life; people over age 75 suffers disabilities; in addition, unprecedented demographic changes due to general aging of the world population, suggests that these figures will increase. Therefore, urban spaces should be actually accessible and respond to XXI century's social needs. Connection between democracy and the public realm will soon be established by citizens' inclusion and appreciation.

666734at

ORGANIZATION

CHART

TAKSIM URBAN DESIGN ‐ INTERNATIONAL DESIGN COMPETITION

666734at

666734at’s SECOND STAGE ORGANIZATION CHART WITHOUT ID Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM)

THE ARCHITECT ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN TEAM (“Design Lead & Coordination”)

URBAN PLANNER

LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

CONSULTANTS

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT MSc

TRAFFIC CONSULTANCY

ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING DESIGN STRUCTURAL DESGIN INFRASTRUCTURAL DESIGN MECHANICAL‐ELECTRICAL DESIGN SECURITY CONSULTANCY FIRE SAFETY CONSULTANCY VIROLOGY/ HEALTY WELLBEING AND PRODUCTIVITY CONSULTANCY

ENTERTAIMENT AND PERFORMANCE CONSULTANCY SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING PEOPLE MOVEMENT CONSULTANCY SOCIOLOGY CONSULTANCY

SUSTAINABLE/ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN * “Leed Neightbourhood Certification might be considered in line with Client requirements”

MUSEUM & PUBLIC ART CONSULTANT / CURATOR

*Identities can be accessed through the identity envelope.**The Proposed Organisation scheme is a preliminary scheme for information purpose; to be further developed and finalized upon appointment and mutual agreement with the Municipality.”