Chapter 7 – Conclusion
Within the scope of this text, the motivations of doing this research and the aimed outcomes are presented, the methodology adopted is explained, the theoretical framework sustaining the study is probed, the reasons behinf picking the examined case studies are explained and the explarations on case studies are presented and finally the complimentary products of this research -two physical models and an archival website- are discussed.
The research aim answering the question “What aspects of Istanbul’s lost leisure space typologies, mesire and plaj, suggest inclusive sustainable urban settings and can be used for overcoming social polarization?”. With the motivation derived from detecting a contemporary social conflict in the İstanbul context, acknowledging it as an example associated with the larger memory, identity, and spatial-perception issues; it returns back to look for solution that can be found within this local context via the exploration of two case studies: Istanbul’s lost mesire and plaj typologies.
Setting the theory of this research project, the memory and identity are found related to each other and their development and construction is discovered as a process of spatial perception. Looking from this perspective, identity is recognized as an ever-changing, collective phenomenon that is determined by the experience and narration of the explored concepts: memory, identity, and spatial perception. The “public space” is picked as a spatial setting that these phenomena can be studied, and this discussion can be placed in a material, experiential dimension. The public space emerging as an exuberant, multilayered spatial concept that sustains beyond predictable encounters and negotiations at an experiential level defines the reason for this focusing on these contexts.
To explore the construction of a shared identity through multiple interactions happening at a spatial context; the collective memories of the almost lost mesire and beach typologies are investigated. These typologies that indicated leisure spaces were formed temporarily by the occupation and spatial
appropriation of the users. By carrying the attributes of a public space that assists the interactions between the elements forming it, and being redesigned and iterated by the unpredictable,circumstantial decisions of its components, these case studies presented an opportunity to observe how collective memories form and which spatial aspects may be critical to build a shared identity and an inclusive spatio-social setting.
The outcomes derived from these case studies are presented in a non-hierarchal archival web data-base and two abstract models demonstrating the way these typologies are conceptualized within the perspective of this research. By this project, it is discovered that the spatial settings produce collective memories that indicate shared identities via the interactions between the physical, temporary, and abstract elements constituting the space phenomena. In order to sustain the formation of these shared identities inclusive of multiple narratives, individual identities, and interpretations; the spatial contexts that provide interaction and familiarization between the bodies forming it. Through the negotiations in the everyday context, by getting familiar with multiple aspects creating the space, and resolving conflicts emerging at micro-interactions; the complex nexus of collective memory, the shared identity, can be reshaped. This process suggests an inclusive, non-hierarchal and less radical formation of collective identities. It also indicates spatial contexts that are going to re-iterate while allowing to coexist and develop a culture of living together. These spaces where people can be present as themselves and ready to interact with each other can be provided with adopting a certain perspective.
Based on the studies of mesires and beaches it can be said that multiple spatial aspect may sustain these environments. In mesire these appear as storytelling practices, promenades promoting physical encounters, or more and in plaj as the physical space’s textures, the inclusivity of games and contests, and others. Overall, these findings can be summarized under a principle of “allowing and promoting appropriations through spatial design – or by ‘un’ or ‘under-’ designing”. Appropriation and manipulation of the occupied space gives the participant a chance to present oneself and familiarize with the others. It provides visibility for ideas and identities beyond the powerful narratives silencing them. It presents chances of having a voice in the collective memory, which increases or decreases based on the organic negotiations in the space. The already existing (or existed) appropriation culture in Istanbul that blurs the lines between public and private, can therefore be embraced and become a beneficial tool. Adopting these principles and the perspective gained in future designs, spaces that generate inclusive coexistence can be created; the behaviours of dehumanization and social polarization may be overcomed, and a sustainable urban setting can be created.
The outcomes derived from these case studies are presented in a non-hierarchal archival web data-base and two abstract models demonstrating the way these typologies are conceptualized within the perspective of this research. By this project, it is discovered that the spatial settings produce collective memories that indicate shared identities via the interactions between the physical, temporary, and abstract elements constituting the space phenomena. In order to sustain the formation of these shared identities inclusive of multiple narratives, individual identities, and interpretations; the spatial contexts that provide interaction and familiarization between the bodies forming it. Through the negotiations in the everyday context, by getting familiar with multiple aspects creating the space, and resolving conflicts emerging at micro-interactions; the complex nexus of collective memory, the shared identity, can be reshaped. This process suggests an inclusive, non-hierarchal and less radical formation of collective identities. It also indicates spatial contexts that are going to re-iterate while allowing to coexist and develop a culture of living together. These spaces where people can be present as themselves and ready to interact with each other can be provided with adopting a certain perspective.
Based on the studies of mesires and beaches it can be said that multiple spatial aspect may sustain these environments. In mesire these appear as storytelling practices, promenades promoting physical encounters, or more and in plaj as the physical space’s textures, the inclusivity of games and contests, and others. Overall, these findings can be summarized under a principle of “allowing and promoting appropriations through spatial design – or by ‘un’ or ‘under-’ designing”. Appropriation and manipulation of the occupied space gives the participant a chance to present oneself and familiarize with the others. It provides visibility for ideas and identities beyond the powerful narratives silencing them. It presents chances of having a voice in the collective memory, which increases or decreases based on the organic negotiations in the space. The already existing (or existed) appropriation culture in Istanbul that blurs the lines between public and private, can therefore be embraced and become a beneficial tool. Adopting these principles and the perspective gained in future designs, spaces that generate inclusive coexistence can be created; the behaviours of dehumanization and social polarization may be overcomed, and a sustainable urban setting can be created.