Urban conservation project in Balibey District/Sile

Şile has a strategic socioeconomic and geographical location due to its equable climate, distinctive flora and closeness to central Istanbul and straits. Owing to its geographical location, this town played host to several civilizations and societies since its establishment. Şile, which remained under Turkish administration after Romans left the town in 1923 following a long settlement, has the honor of being one of the first municipalities of the newly-established Turkish Republic. Necessary urban space analyses were made in order to report the present situation, identify the problems and assess the potentials by field survey which was conducted in Balibey district of urban site of Şile which had a small settlement but a cosmopolitan culture in the past. The suggestions were developed to reveal these potentials. Balibey district, which was analyzed in the scope of this thesis, is one of the important surviving districts. The lighthouse draws attention in the district, which has frame houses in the structural stock. The Second Council for the Conservation of Cultural and Natural Heritage of Istanbul approved Balibey district, which has an importance with plans, building materials, construction techniques and beautiful large gardens, as Şile urban conservation site as well as primary and secondary natural conservation site in 01.28.1992 dated and 2796 numbered resolution. 50 registered parcels take place in the field. 3 of them could not remain so far. Decrees of the conservative reconstruction plan, which was prepared in 1992 and revised with 04.12.2001 dated and 6001 numbered resolution, is still in force. By land study and investigations of all buildings as well as assessing of analysis maps in 1/1000 scale in Balibey district of urban conservation site, proposal maps were prepared. The present situation is documented and suggestions are presented by plans in 1/200 scale and silhouettes in the most preserved axis named "Camii Sokağı". In buildings, which preserved its originality, plans, facades and building materials were investigated according to their typologies in building scope. By mentioning the legal process, suggestions were developed in order to resolve the problems which arise from interaction between the whole district and the work field in Şile, where conservation plan and reconstruction plan do not coalesce. In conclusion, during the field is handed down next generations, it is aimed to define the path, which is to be followed to integrate Balibey urban conservation site into the district by gentrifying and preserving its originality as a land with inhabitants.