Transformation of urban public space in Ankara, Atatürk Boulevard

Public spaces stretch from the streets, squares, parks to the buildings surrounding them, and are the most important parts of the cities. Therefore, public spaces reflect the effects of socio-cultural and economic dynamics on the physical environment. Their characters are formed through a design process which is led by the social experience. The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the transformation of public spaces after the foundation of Republic of Turkey, focusing on Atatürk Boulevard. The main attention of this study is on how the meaning and usage of public spaces on Atatürk Boulevard have changed in time. In order to find an answer, the study evaluates the transformation of the Boulevard in certain periods. In a historical framework, socio-spatial, socio-economic and political meanings and the functions of the public spaces on the Boulevard (squares, open green spaces, cinemas, theatres, cultural activities like bookstores, restaurants, cafes, patisseries, clubs and NGO?s, etc.) are examined. This analysis focuses on the transformation process of the Boulevard from a planned development after the proclamation of the republic to a not well-planned (by local governments) development.