A Proposal on Detection and Analysis of Threshold Public Spaces Using On-Site Observation and Behavioral Mapping Technique

Abstract

The quality of threshold spaces is one of the critical criteria that shapes user behavior. A well-constructed urban threshold space prepares the user by presenting traces from the main space, thus providing continuity between spaces, enabling the space to be read more easily and establishing an efficient human-space relationship. Threshold spaces may vary depending on the angle from which they are examined, making it challenging to develop a method for their detection and analysis. In addition, studies on "threshold space analysis" have been found to be insufficient. In addition to this, The lack of study and definition of threshold spaces in comparison to other spaces prevents the realization of a holistic perspective, the examination of the whole and a better understanding of the two spaces it separates. The aim of the study is to propose an approach for the detection and analysis of threshold spaces based on the knowledge gap in the literature. The sample study of the proposal was carried out on Gar meydanı- Station square in Adapazarı / Sakarya / Turkey, which are thought to be threshold spaces. Sample study data of Gar meydanı- Station square public space were used to express the proposed approach in this study. The developed approach proposal consists of preliminary research-examination of the study area as a threshold area, the scope of the study and three-stage threshold area detection and analysis sections. As a result of testing the approach developed in line with the study’s objective on sample study area, it was understood that the suggested approach could be used to detect and analyze threshold spaces holistically, and that the "threshold" status of the spaces could be interpreted through user behaviors.