Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
VI. INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF CULTURAL LANDSCAPES WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, Amasya, Türkiye, 13 - 14 Kasım 2025, ss.640-651, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
Paving materials used in urban open spaces not only define the physical character of a place but also play a crucial role in user safety, aesthetic integrity, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. Material selection should be evaluated not merely through structural durability and functionality, but also in relation to ecological parameters such as local climate adaptability, surface water management, and microclimatic comfort. Appropriate material choices directly influence urban quality of life, whereas inadequate selections can lead to impermeability, slipperiness, urban heat accumulation, and visual incoherence. In regions such as Rize, characterized by high humidity and frequent rainfall, the climate sensitivity of paving materials
has become an essential indicator of sustainable urban design. This study aims to evaluate the functional, aesthetic, and environmental suitability of paving materials used in Rize City Square through a multidimensional analytical approach. The research methodology integrates qualitative data obtained from field observations with semi-structured expert interviews conducted with landscape architects involved in the design process, complemented by an extensive literature review. Through this triangulated analysis, parameters such as material types, usage density, durability, permeability, and climatic compatibility were examined. Findings reveal that the current material selections exhibit limited responsiveness to climatic
conditions; however, systematically incorporating local climate data into the design process can significantly enhance user comfort and sustainability. The results highlight the importance of developing evidence-based decision mechanisms in material selection to foster a more sustainable and functional urban aesthetic