Work

Toward a Sustainable Urban Morphology: A Critical Examination of Atakum City Centre

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Urban areas are shaped by physical, social, cultural, and economic dynamics, requiring sustainable planning approaches that balance liveability, accessibility, and cultural continuity. This study examines Atakum, a rapidly urbanised district in Samsun, Turkey, which has evolved from a coastal resort into one of the densest urban areas in the Black Sea region. Focusing on the Türkiş region, Atakum’s earliest intensively developed residential area, this study evaluates urban morphological sustainability through typo-morphological analysis within the framework of New Urbanism. The methodology integrates a literature review, spatial analysis, morphological mapping, and space syntax to assess building typologies, block structures, green space distribution, pedestrian accessibility, and transportation networks. The findings revealed imbalances in public and green space provision, inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, and challenges related to density, sunlight access, and street hierarchy. Despite mixed land uses and commercial vitality, deficiencies in walkability and environmental quality contribute to fragmented urban patterns, undermining sustainability and quality of life.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su182111328

Author: Cem Ayık

Institution: Ondokuz Mayıs University

Language: English

Topic: Urban Design and Spatial Analysis

Subfield: Urban Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896