Case Reports and Reviews: Open Access

Abstract 

This research illuminates the challenges faced by Istanbul, one of the world's largest metropolises, as it undergoes a paradoxical transformation from a historical city to one aspiring to sustainability. Despite its rich historical past, the city has grappled with the impacts of industrialization since the 19th century, particularly evident in the Historical Peninsula where industrial facilities coexist with slum housing in adjacent neighborhoods. According to the World Bank's latest definition, the complexities of megacities like Istanbul have intensified since the industrialization period and are now intricately linked with emerging challenges related to climate change. The urbanization and industrialization processes in cities have given rise to issues such as overpopulation, uncontrolled housing expansion, slum developments, and industrial pollution. The late 20th century witnessed a shift in urban planning paradigms, with a move towards new and innovative designs from discursive ideas and zoning methods based on the division of areas. Examining the problematic via planning principles of the French architect-planner Henri Prost, and old French l’école (school) planning tool particularly zone (zoning) of residential, industrial, and green-areas, this research critically evaluates both historical planning techniques and focus on contemporary innovative methods and projects. By exploring multiple morphological and epistemological definitions, the study offers a new perspective on the planning of Istanbul, aiming to reconcile old practices with new insights. While other cities focused on climate change, sustainability, and creating healthy and livable environments, Istanbul faced internal challenges natural disasters, earthquakes, and migrations driven by housing shortages. This research is dedicated to understanding the transformative process of Istanbul's residential and industrial areas into a sustainable city through the complex interplay of historical legacies, urbanization, and contemporary environmental imperatives. 

Keywords: City Planning; Housing, Industrial Areas; Istanbul; Residential Areas; Sustainability.