Akhisar Old Town Square

The proposed pedestrianization and public space design for Akhisar Square draws deeply from the city’s historical evolution, notably inspired by the 1934 and 1954 development plans. This initiative aims to enhance the pedestrian axis by reconfiguring the existing park within the context of the historical axis and introducing an overlay park. The upper canopy park holds symbolic significance, emphasizing the historical axis while meeting the functional needs of both the lower and upper squares.

The morphology of the square is carefully crafted to integrate urban imagery, revitalize the historical axis, and foster connections between the lower and upper squares. The overlay space, highlighting the historical axis, is envisioned as a versatile area offering diverse potential uses between the existing park and historical buildings. The phased approach to pedestrianization is clearly illustrated in the square’s formation diagram, signaling the gradual extension of pedestrian-friendly measures to Akhisar’s streets, starting from the proposed square.

Architectural decisions prioritize restoring registered buildings in Akhisar’s Historical City Core by removing unsuitable additions and re-evaluating them as cultural and social activity centers. Although lacking official protection status, the old town hall is proposed for adaptive reuse in harmony with the overall architectural style, envisioned as a community and youth center to preserve its significance in the city’s collective memory.

A new additional building behind the old town hall is designed to integrate seamlessly with the historic structure, enhancing the square’s overall character. Integrating old commercial areas into this structure aims to foster public permeability and provide useful spaces connecting the square, old town hall, and the new annex building. Landmarks such as the Girls’ Vocational High School, New Gülruh Mosque, Old Town Hall, and Park Cinema are regarded as crucial elements in the city’s memory, with efforts aimed at preserving their symbolic and spatial importance from the past to the present day.

Specific attention is given to the Park Cinema’s role in the city skyline, proposing the removal and restructuring of unsuitable additions on its entrance façade to strengthen its place in the city’s memory. Repurposing the former Girls’ Vocational High School into a city museum aims to deepen residents’ connections with their city and revive its historical memory. These design decisions reflect Akhisar’s commitment to preserving its historical heritage while re-evaluating it to meet contemporary needs effectively.