Urban biophilia in Ankara: Enhancing the environmental experience through biophilic design in the Alacaatli neighborhood

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Tezin Türü: Yüksek Lisans

Tezin Yürütüldüğü Kurum: Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi, Mimarlık Fakültesi, Şehir Ve Bölge Planlama Bölümü, Türkiye

Tezin Onay Tarihi: 2024

Tezin Dili: İngilizce

Öğrenci: NURTEN MÜGE AYLA

Danışman: Zübeyde Müge Akkar Ercan

Özet:

The integration of nature into urban environments is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide in response to growing challenges that threaten the quality and experience of our environments. The biophilia hypothesis, popularized by Edward O. Wilson and Stephen R. Kellert, asserts that humans possess a genetic predisposition to seek connection with and experience the natural world. However, contemporary urban environments not only isolate individuals from nature but also introduce additional challenges inherent to city living, all of which collectively impact the experience of the environment and quality of life. In Ankara, uncontrolled urbanization driven by rapid population growth and the urban land market has further compromised both the quality of life and environmental conditions for its residents. The objective of this thesis is to enhance the biophilic environment within the Alacaatlı neighborhood, with the intention of setting a precedent for the broader urban planning initiatives in Ankara. Through a case study approach encompassing the historical background of the city of Ankara and the Çayyolu district, current climatic conditions and population trends in the Alacaatlı neighborhood, and systematic field observations to assess the biophilic experience, this study aims to demonstrate the application of biophilic design strategies. These strategies seek to enhance both the quality of life and environmental experience in response to the distinct challenges present in this area.