A model proposals for the planning and design of historical city centers: A case study of Gaziantep

This study aims to create a framework of design which will strengthen the spatial and visual organization and direct the future urban design and pedestrianization works, determining conservation and development strategies based on Gaziantep historical city district. For this purpose, we have defined the terms city, urban identity and urban space, considering the historical process. First, we have analyzed spatial relationships between the city and the historical city district and offered suggestions for the improvement of this relationships. In the next section, we have made a typology study in order to determine the physical characteristics of constructions, streets, and squares. By the authenticity of city identity factors and conducted observations and examinations in the area, we have designated four response areas in the border of the study space as follows conservation, conservation and rehabilitation, revitalization, and the transition zone. In the last section, we have analyzed the spatial relationships of the historical city district and nearby places. As a result of this analysis, we have offered exclusive attention centers (EAC), strategic primary zones (SPZ), and urban subcenters (US), considering the policies which identified in the response areas towards the solution of spatial problems. Space Syntax method have used in the analyzing of spatial models. Consequently, in accordance with the suggestions on the city, we have found that the integrity value of the city area has averagely increased from 3850 to 5370 by 39%. In addition, the integrity value of the historical city district has increased 89%.