A Discussion On The Physical Characteristics And The Evolution Of The Gecekondu Phenomenon

摘要

This study rests on the hypothesis that economic relations have a definite impacton the formation of physical space. What are the factors which caused thetransformation of tin roofed shacks into orderly and regular neighborhoods ofbig cities of Turkey during the past 40 -45 years? The evolution of the gecekonduprocess should not be interpreted merely as the renewal of physical elementsof such shelters. The distinguishing character of a gecekondu does not arise fromthe fact that it is built on somebody else's land. Although the familiar urbanconstruction process is completed in single steps, gecekondu type of residencesfollow a building process which continues and evolves in time. Thus, urbanresidential structure consists of a 'rigid' component which reflects thecontemporary level of capital, technology and organization and which isrenewed in pre-defined stages; and a far more 'flexible' component called gecekondu.This study aims at analysing the characteristics of the 'flexible"component and at discussing the process of its transformation in time. Theevolution of gecekondus in Turkish cities can be categorized into four stages