Exploring multidimensional aspects of walkability:An innovative analysis approach in Besiktas,Istanbul

This study develops a holistic approach that underlines the effect of spatial,behavioral,and perceptional dimensions on walkability at the neighborhood scale.The study recognizes quantitatively measured tangible factors and qualitatively assessed intangible values to evaluate the level of walkability in Besiktas,Istanbul(Turkey).The research explores the independent and combined effects of physical characteristics,individual perceptions,and walking behavior on walkability.Geographic Information Systems urban analyses,space syntax analysis,and observation to establish an analytical framework for spatial and behavioral dimensions of walkability in Besiktas central district are used as a methodology.Additionally,perceptional data is gathered through an experimental approach,which involves participants walking along pre-determined routes using cartography techniques and employing“shared walks”as a mobile method.The results of study confirmed previous findings from studies that the physical,social,and typological attributes of the built environment have a significant correlation between walking behavior and the physical and social aspects of the built environment.This study provides a comprehensive walkability assessment framework,encompassing quantitative and qualitative dimensions.By incorporating spatial,behavioral,and perceptual dimensions,this approach provides an efficient and integrated analytical methodology for evaluating walkability,distinguishing itself with its originality in the field of walkability research.

Understanding pedestrian behavior and spatial relations:A pedestrianized area in Besiktas,Istanbul

This research provides a mixed method of investigating and analyzing pedestrian behavior in pedestrianized areas,which is one of the human-based urban development practices.The relationship between pedestrian behavior and perception of the city is discussed through a combination of architect and urban planner Gordon Cullen’s theory and Space Syntax methodology.This study examines the development and implementation of the methodology to understand the relationship between pedestrian behavior and space in Besiktas Koyici settlement,Istanbul.The methodology,integrated with on-site observations(observing 10 min at five different observation points in the settlement at predetermined times on weekdays and weekends),surveys(determining pedestrian movement and perception in terms of Cullen’s theory)and spatial configuration(Space Syntax analysis(connectivity,integrity)done with DepthMapX software),aims to analyze pedestrian behavior patterns.The concepts of sense of place and content,as well as the effects of their sub-concepts on their behaviors,were revealed because of a survey conducted with students and architects of variety of educational levels who are daily users of the field.Pedestrian counting and observations were used to create density,activity,and mobility maps of the area.It has been found that pedestrianized areas have a significant impact on pedestrian behavior through influencing vitality and appeal and that Cullen’s theory may be used to analyze pedestrian behavior and perceptions of the city.The study showed that spatial configuration and Cullen’s theory effect pedestrian movement by complementing each other.