A Comparative Analysis of Different Urban Spaces Using Public Space Index

Abstract

The discussion of ownership of public space, which started with the privatisation of public spaces, especially after the 1980s, and the effects of this situation on the quality of public space, has become important in the literature. This study aims to measure the quality of public spaces that have different levels of ownership in Istanbul with the public space index based on observational and perceptual indicators. Inclusiveness, meaningful activities, comfort, safety, and pleasurability, which are accepted as the main quality dimensions of public space, are measured in different public spaces in Istanbul. Thus, the differences in the perceptual outcomes of the privatisation strategies as perceived at the geographical level and the causes of these differences are identified. It is important to reveal which indicators create differences or similarities in public spaces at different ownership levels in terms of improving public spaces and increasing their level of use. As a result of this study, it was obtained that the ownership of public space is not entirely effective in the perception of quality.