City walls reimagined: unveiling adaptive potentials of Istanbul Land Walls

Abstract

The study investigates the adaptive potential of Istanbul Land Walls, focusing on their socio-spatial formations, user-driven modifications, and perceptual dynamics. Employing a dual-phase methodology, the study explores three focus areas: Edirnekap & imath;, Topkap & imath;, and Yedikule. The findings identify typologies of socio-spatial formations and modifications, including appropriation of in-between spaces, adaptive reconfigurations in threshold spaces, and practices of everyday street vending that redefine interactions with the walls. The study underscores the necessity of adaptive urban design strategies to reintegrate historical walls into the contemporary city, which fosters responsive, inclusive, and dynamic urban spaces.