Abstract:
The aim of this study is to propose a checklist-based model that can be used to evaluate urban outdoor spaces, based on the example of Istanbul Ortaköy Square. International studies and theoreticians’ perspectives on the subject were investigated in detail in order to determine the criteria that can be used to evaluate the success of the space. When creating the checklist, the result of the studies of Whyte (1980), Marcus and Francis (1997, 2003), Project for Public Places (2000, 2001, 2005, 2009), and Gehl (1996, 2002, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013) in particular were effective. The main criteria believed to have an impact on the quality of the open spaces are; Functional qualities (Sub-criteria: Uses and activities, accessibility, attractive places), Social qualities (Sub-criteria: Sense of community, community identity, social interaction, place attachment, sense of ownership) and Perceptual qualities (Sub-criteria: Physical comfort physiological comfort, environmental comfort, safety and security, maintenance and management, technology). The generated checklist was tested in Ortaköy Square, considered a successful urban space in Istanbul. Methods utilized in the study conducted between 2019-20, were on-site determination, observation and photography. As a result of the study, it was determined that the Social and Perceptual Qualities of the urban space play a more important and more effective role than its Functional Qualities.
