The Effect of Universal Design and Ergonomics on Urban Space; The Case of Eminönü – Sirkeci

Abstract

The principles for designing the urban built environment or open araes should be user-friendly. In this context, the "universal design" approach is based on the principle of accessibility to services in public spaces and it searches how all people can benefit from urban equipment elements in equal or similar circumstances. Urban ergonomics are concerned with people and the open areas of the city they live in. Accessibility means that every individual living in the city can access all public services and spaces. This study; it covers universal design principles in terms of urban space, development of disabled people's usage rights and ergonomic design approaches. In addition, the selected study area is Sirkeci and Eminönü Squares and its immediate surroundings; the use of public spaces, practices that create barriers to physical access to disadvantaged groups, deficiencies in ergonomic design have been identified and suggestions have been developed.