A Framework Proposal for the Developing Climate Sensitive Spatial Design Strategies: The Case of Kırklareli City Center

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as a major challenge affecting urban sustainability. Increased population mobility due to social and economic factors has led to an expansion in urban density. This growth in urban space has resulted in the transformation of physical spaces into built environments lacking green areas. In the microclimate zones formed in dense urban areas, temperatures different from the current situation and thermal values that prevent the comfort level are observed. One of the most basic solutions that can prevent this temperature stress is the creation of recreational areas. In this study, the regulating effect of urban green spaces on microclimate is evaluated as a design element in urban planning. In this context, a study approach is proposed to develop climate-sensitive spatial design strategies. Micro-regions in the city center of Kırklareli are identified and comparative evaluations are made with recreation areas. The study aims to make two main contributions: (1) basic climatic conditions and problems are identified at the city and neighborhood scale, and (2) climate-sensitive spatial design strategies and recommendations are developed in urban and recreational themes.