User Mobility Analysis of Lighting Practices in Konya City Square

Abstract

Aim: There have been many urban design application and research studies describing the connection between user movement and space. The Space Syntax Method, an urban design model developed by the Space Syntax Laboratory at University College London, England, seeks to describe the connection between pedestrian movement and spatial formation on a mathematical basis. The Space Syntax is specialized approach used in designing pedestrian connections within the urban structure. It observes pedestrian and vehicle movements, and uses computer programs to calculate the potential effects of design proposals on pedestrian movement.

Method: This model is used in many European countries and it provides consistent results for pedestrian movement. This method was utilized to determine the connection between pedestrian movement and the space format in a field described in this study – the Konya City Square. Starting from pedestrian movement and the assembly points, the study recorded the observations and the follow-up of pedestrian movement in Konya city center during a one-week period (at different hours of the day, on weekdays and weekends, in the daytime and at night). A video recording was made and it was turned into pedestrian movement charts. Graphic maps were also prepared and they were compared to the Space Syntax Method. Furthermore, a lighting analysis was conducted in the City Square using the DIALux lighting calculation program and it was found to be consistent with the current records.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the lighting work at the City Square underestimated pedestrian movement on the Square, and the monument at the center of the Square lacked visibility and definability. Suggestions were put forward regarding these issues.