Physical changes and pedestrian dynamics in public space: The Beşiktaş case

MEGARON, cilt.21, sa.1, ss.1-15, 2026 (ESCI)

Urban squares are crucial for urban life, enhancing city attractiveness and livability; nevertheless, many in

Istanbul lack pedestrian-oriented design and sufficient infrastructure. Relatedly several projects have been

implemented in urban squares to overcome these issues. However, designing urban squares leads to both

improvements and controversies, reshaping not only the physical environment but also how individuals engage

with public space, and understanding pre/post dynamics of interventions provides comprehensive feedback and

helps municipalities to resolve further needs.

This study explores the impact of spatial changes on pedestrian behavior in Besiktas Barbaros Square

(Istanbul/Turkey) and its surroundings. With a three-stage methodology, this research first identifies physical

transformations by analyzing satellite imagery, street views, and field studies. Second, pedestrian flows and

stationary activities are observed via manual video recordings (10 minutes, weekday/weekend, 2022-2024),

capturing the site both before (once the steel overpass was removed and before the site was redeveloped) and

after interventions. These observations are mapped and analyzed using QGIS. Third, perspectives from

professionals (n=31) in spatial fields -urban planners, architects, and landscape architects- are gathered through

surveys and open-ended responses. The findings focused on the eastern part of the square due to observational

constraints, which reveal that adding urban furniture impacts dynamic/stationary activities and enhanced social

interactions. The new eagle sculpture also emerged as a focal point. According to professionals’ evaluations,

interventions contributed to partial improvements in several aspects between pedestrians and the space.

However, considering location-based potentials, green space use and the spatial connection with the urban

coastline still need to be improved.

Keywords: urban square, behavior mapping, pedestrian behavior, public space, Besiktas.