VALLEYESCAPE
The starting point of my project is the problem that the strong historical and cultural identity of Kayseri Square is not sufficiently perceived among dense construction, traffic and pedestrian movements today. Although the square and its surroundings contain important structures from different periods, the cramped structure of the area makes it difficult for users to experience this historical texture holistically. This situation reveals the need of the city dweller to “breathe” both spatially and visually.
In this direction, the basic concept of the design has been determined as “valley”. The valley is considered not only as a physical form, but also as a space opened within the urban density and as a guiding public backbone. A continuous public valley was created by connecting the open spaces, viewing corridors and breathing points determined in the field analysis. Thus, users have a more spacious, readable and accessible spatial experience without moving away from the dense urban texture.
While the design functions as a transportation hub, it does not aim to be just a transfer point. On the contrary, it produces a public space that brings together different types of transport while associating users with the historical environment. The form of the building consists of soft and guiding lines that follow the natural flow of the valley. An uninterrupted relationship was established between the square and the building by using elevation differences, and gradual transitions were preferred instead of hard boundaries. This approach both directs user movements and ensures the integration of the building with its surroundings.
As a result, the project aims to make the historical values of Kayseri Square visible, to produce new public spaces by reducing the congestion of the area, and to transform the transportation function into a social experience. This spatial setup, created through the concept of valley, allows users to establish a stronger bond with the city, the square and the historical heritage.
