Effects of Earthshelter’s on Urban Space in Context of Biophilic Design; A case of Meydan İstanbul Mall, Turkey

Abstract

The aim of the research is evaluating earthelters in biophilic context and to examine their effects on urban spaces in detail. The scope of the research consists of the example of Meydan İstanbul Mall located in Ümraniye district of Istanbul, which is an example of an earthsheltered partially underground construction. The basic material of the reseach consists of the findings that depend on the case study. In this context, the architectural projects, aerial photos, maps, and visuals of the building are among the other materials. The method of the research bases on the evaluation of Meydan İstanbul Mall in the context of biophilic design principles (developed according to literature research data) by comparing it contemporary conventional buildings. In this context, urban biophilic design criterias are developed primarily. In the second stage of the research method, Meydan İstanbul mall in the context of urban biophilic indicators are evaluated elaborately. The findings obtained from the research show that earthshelters increase the biophilic value by interacting the city and contribute to integration of ecologic urban space.