Analytical evaluation of public space organization in the context of gender: Trabzon Faroz-Ganita beach park example

More than half of the global population lives in urban areas, where daily life practices vary significantly, one of the major reasons being gender. This concept, defined not by the biological differences between men and women but by the roles assigned to them by society, also leads to differences in the use of space and imposes certain limitations/difficulties for women. Women generally spend their leisure time fulfilling domestic responsibilities, whereas men tend to engage in more outward and recreational activities. This study aims to determine how the qualities of public space affect the usage levels of women and men within the context of gender. The study area selected was Trabzon Faroz-Sahil Ganita Park, and a three-stage process was followed using both qualitative and quantitative research methods. In the first stage, the physical structure and usage patterns of the area were identified on-site; in the second stage, spatial data analyses, observations, and interviews were conducted; and in the third stage, the findings regarding the characteristics of public space and the usage patterns of women and men were evaluated together. It was found that women use the park differently from men, due to concerns about safety, limitations in accessibility, inadequate comfort conditions, and criticisms regarding maintenance services. As a result, policies aimed at creating public spaces with equal usage levels for women and men have been developed in urban planning and urban design processes.