Evaluation of the use of natural stone elements in landscape applications: The case of Bursa İnegöl

Natural stones, as some of history's most significant witnesses, have been used continuously from primitive humans to the present day, undergoing changes in shape and function. However, with the advent of the industrial and technological revolutions, our country has increasingly moved away from natural materials. In recent years, with the rise in environmental awareness, there has been a shift from concrete structures and cladding materials, whose usage rates have rapidly increased, back to natural materials. This is because every non-natural material eventually harms human health and the environment. Therefore, the most appropriate choice for hard structures is natural stones. In this study, the formation, usage areas, and properties of natural stones are primarily examined. When natural stones are used appropriately in suitable areas according to their physical properties, they not only enhance the aesthetics of the application but also ensure functionality and durability. The first aim of the thesis is to guide designers and users on how natural stones can be used as building materials or landscape elements in landscape designs. In stone applications, designers must be knowledgeable about the properties of the stones they use and make correct decisions about where to use which natural stone. The second part of the research addresses the variety and usage areas of natural stones for decorative purposes. Subsequently, examples that are considered correct in the use of natural stones in landscape applications are shown. The study emphasizes the design principles, which hold a significant place within the profession of landscape architecture, that need to be considered when using natural stones in landscape applications. In the third part, the research area is analyzed, data is collected, and surveys are conducted with users. Eight separate recreational areas are examined within the scope of the study, and the natural stones present in these areas are evaluated. The main objective of the thesis is to investigate the use of natural stone elements in landscape applications in Bursa's İnegöl district. In the conclusions and recommendations section of the study, the physical properties (durability, economic aspects, design, and aesthetics) of natural stones used in landscape applications in our country and the potential areas where they can be used in landscape applications (such as walking paths, wall cladding, sculptures, etc.) are discussed.