Effects of open and green urban areas on human psychology and investigation in terms of neuro architecture: The case of Kocaeli

One of the most important elements that make up a city is the open and green spaces in the city. These areas affect the city dwellers living in that area positively or negatively psychologically. People establish their connection with the external environment they are in with 5 senses (sight - hearing - smell - taste - touch). With these senses, individuals are affected by the neuro-architectural value of the city where they are located. The purpose of this research; to evaluate the urban open and green space systems in terms of neuro-architecture, to determine the landscape elements and design criteria that have positive effects. The research was carried out in 6 parks in Kocaeli Province (Seka Park - Doğukışla Park - Harikalar Parkı - Anıt Park - Cumhuriyet Park - Demokrasi Park). Research method; The data obtained from the questionnaires based on face-to-face interviews are the chi-square test analyzes performed in the Spss Statistics 23 program. Some of the results obtained from the research are as follows. Kocaeli is an industrial city. The most important water element that strengthens the design in open green spaces is the sea, and the most effective element that gives visitors a positive feeling in the city throughout the day is the sea. The city is liked by the users in terms of scenery. The city is not liked in terms of smell. The city is also not liked in terms of noise. In line with these results, suggestions for improvement have been developed. Key words: Urban Open and Green Spaces, Neuro Architecture, Psychology, Kocaeli