Consumption-oriented spatial transformation of Karaköy and Salıpazarı port: Galataport Istanbul

The area, which served as a military barracks, assembly factory, Karaköy Dock and Salıpazarı Harbor between the 18th and 20th centuries, was now known as Galataport Istanbul, carrying functions such as shopping areas, eating and drinking areas, hotel buildings, museums, and recreation area has been transformed. When this transformation is examined from a spatial and social point of view, it has been observed that the coastal area has turned into a consumption-oriented urban space. Transformations in the urban area are seen as potential areas where the capitalist system will benefit itself. Coastal areas with high potential in terms of tourism, economy and consumption value are among the areas affected by this situation. There are examples where coastal areas are transformed with economic concerns rather than public interest. It can be said that the study area was designed under the name of the cruise port, mostly with functions such as shopping areas, eating and drinking areas, and turned into a marketing tool. The coastal area, which served as Karaköy and Salıpazarı Port in the past, has now been transformed within the scope of the Galataport Project. This study focuses on the transformation of Galataport from the old port area into an open shopping center by undergoing a consumption-oriented transformation. In this context, the transformation of Karaköy and Salıpazarı Port into Galataport Project has been analyzed in spatial and temporal context. A survey and in-depth interviews were conducted with the visitors of the Galataport Project by questioning the consumption space created by the port area in the city as it transforms. As a result of the interviews, opinions about the transformation of the project area were reached. Most of the visitors defined Galataport as a shopping center and stated that the wall system designed on the shore broke the relationship between the shore and the Bosphorus. Visitors made suggestions that the coastal area where Galataport is located should be social areas where public use is increased, more green areas, and that can appeal to different economic groups.