World Urban Parks Symposium 2025, İstanbul, Türkiye, 8 - 10 Ekim 2025, (Yayınlanmadı)
This study investigates user demands
in two different parks (Mehmet Akif Ersoy Park as a coastal park and Hidayettin
Bağı Park as a pocket park located in Sarıyer, Istanbul) by using visitor
monitoring methods. The research aims to identify the spatial preferences,
behaviors, and expectations of different user groups, including children,
youth, adults, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, pet owners, and
groups. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants (testing
group) in each park, and both qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed
through thematic analysis. The findings indicate that the coastal park is
mainly used for recreational activities such as walking, resting, and interacting
with nature, whereas the pocket park serves short-term rest and social
interaction purposes. The most preferred areas in the coastal park were the
waterfront and walking trails, while seating and playground areas were more
popular in the pocket park. Accessibility, maintenance, and lighting problems
were identified as common issues in both parks. The study concludes that the
scale, diversity of facilities, and accessibility levels of parks significantly
influence user satisfaction and usage density. Ultimately, accessible,
user-centered, and multifunctional open space designs are essential tools for
enhancing urban life quality and promoting social inclusiveness.