From the space of the other to the space of possibilities: a hybrid urban reading of Gazi neighborhood

Urban interventions driven by economic and political interests, without considering social and environmental values, result in the marginalization of differences that symbolize diversity in the city, specifically the "other." Defined by urban researchers as "spatially excluded," "economically disadvantaged groups," "immigrants," and "different identities," these others are directly impacted by urban dynamics such as globalization, capitalism, and modernization. "Urban heterotopias" emerge as spaces that bring together these differences, allowing the creation of hybridity and encounters with the other. Urban heterotopias are not only composed of physical layers but also include social, cultural, and temporal dimensions. By integrating various and often contradictory elements, urban heterotopias serve as potential sites for transformation and thus form a vital part of the dynamic structure of urban space. In this thesis, the concepts of the other and heterotopia are evaluated as essential components of urban space and have been included as key concepts. The theoretical framework of this thesis is built upon the analysis of the relationship and interaction between the main concepts of city–Other–heterotopia through phenomenological and dialectical approaches. These approaches have been examined in a multidimensional, multilayered, and cross-scalar manner. While the social layers emphasize issues such as social cohesion, the acceptance of differences, and social justice, the ecological layers emphasize sustainability and environmental awareness. This dual approach is critically important due to the social and ecological dynamics that shape and rapidly transform cities. In the practical stage of the thesis, cross-scalar analysis was conducted using qualitative research methods. First, analyses were performed at the scale of Istanbul (macro scale), followed by analyses at the scale of Gazi Mahallesi (micro scale). Istanbul, with its layered structure formed by various historical and spatial ruptures, its intersection of cultures, and its spatial contradictions—having boundaries while remaining open to change—has been considered a macro heterotopia in this thesis. Gazi Mahallesi, a multicultural and multilayered neighborhood integrated into the city after the 1950s through various historical, political, cultural, and economic ruptures, is treated as a micro heterotopia. This cross-scalar investigation, from macro to micro, aims to re-examine the concepts of the Other and heterotopia. The field research at the micro scale employed socio-spatial and discursive analysis methods. The socio-spatial analysis was conducted through direct observations and semi-structured interviews, while the discursive analysis was carried out using the 27-episode documentary "Kondular," filmed by local resident Sinan Akkuş in 2017. As a result of the research, it was observed that in Istanbul, consumption spaces, gated communities, and gentrified neighborhoods are rapidly increasing, producing "urban islands" with rigid boundaries that suppress diversity. This situation leads to alienation and segregation among urban residents. In contrast, informal settlements, considered micro heterotopias, encourage the participation and transformation of their residents, thereby creating dynamic environments where the boundaries between private and public spaces become blurred. To enhance this interaction, it is suggested that focusing on third spaces, threshold spaces, and participatory urban planning approaches that facilitate practices of commonality and coexistence could offer a new perspective to urbanism and architecture.