Kucuksu park. Regenerating the coastal area of Istanbul, Bosphorus

Throughout the history, public spaces of Istanbul were developed near the seashores. By the end of the 20th century Istanbul's relation with the sea was severed by new transformations. Especially the Coastal Line Project, which was designed as a part of developmentalist policies at the 20th century, has blocked the relation between the land and the sea. On the other hand, there is lack of green space, the ratio of green spaces to population is well below European standards so more parks are desperately needed in Istanbul. In this study the coastline of Bosphorus between the two bridges will be examined by analyzing different sections at different districts. Especially cul-de-sacs (blind alleys), landfill areas and highways ending up at or opening to the Bosphorus, will be documented. After this examinations and approach of Municipality about Küçüksu district that is among historical pearls that creates Bosphorus’ silhoutte was chosen as project area. Its strategic location between two bosphorus bridge, comprising the coastal line, adds a specific importance to area. It is aimed to create a mixed-use waterfront park system in Bosphorus by designing the new linkages between sea and land. The project will respond to the needs of different surrounding users by providing rich outdoor activities, landscape program and functions. The process of park will be integrated with other sustainable aspects: waste, water and energy. All these aspects act together to operate this eco-compatible architecture. As a result, new intervention to link the sea with the land and to improve the daytime and night use of the public in this area will be proposed, in order to reconfigure the relationship between the city and water.