Istanbul Design Biennial 2018: Rethinking Urban Transformation and its Impact on Social Cohesion and Spatial Justice

The Istanbul Design Biennial (IDB), established in 2012, stands as a testament to the burgeoning design scene in Turkey. This biennial event attracts renowned designers, architects, artists, and thinkers from across the globe to engage in critical dialogues about the role of design in shaping our world. In 2018, under the curatorship of the esteemed British architect and urban planner, Rory Olcayto, the IDB delved into the complex theme of “A Good Neighbourhood”. This seemingly straightforward concept served as a springboard for exploring intricate questions surrounding urban transformation, its impact on social cohesion, and the pursuit of spatial justice.

The exhibition sprawled across various venues in Istanbul, transforming mundane spaces like former industrial buildings and abandoned warehouses into vibrant platforms for discourse. Visitors were greeted by thought-provoking installations, meticulously curated presentations, workshops, and talks that dissected the nuances of neighbourhood life.

Underlying “A Good Neighbourhood” was a profound sense of urgency. Rapid urbanization, unchecked gentrification, and societal inequalities threatened to unravel the fabric of communities worldwide. The IDB sought to address these challenges head-on by showcasing innovative design solutions, participatory practices, and community-driven initiatives that aimed to foster inclusivity and empower marginalized voices.

Causes: An Urban Landscape in Flux

Istanbul, a city straddling both Europe and Asia, has undergone dramatic transformations in recent decades. As a vibrant economic hub and tourist destination, it attracts constant influx of people seeking opportunities and a better life. This rapid population growth coupled with ambitious urban development projects have led to a complex web of consequences:

• Gentrification: Historic neighborhoods are being redeveloped into luxury apartments and commercial spaces, displacing long-time residents who can no longer afford the rising costs.
• Social Segregation: The city is witnessing a growing divide between affluent and less privileged communities, further isolating marginalized groups.

Consequences: Towards a More Equitable City?

The IDB 2018 served as a critical platform for reflecting on these complex urban dynamics. Participants and attendees engaged in lively debates about the following issues:

• Design for Social Inclusion: How can design interventions promote equitable access to housing, public spaces, and essential services for all residents?
• Community Engagement: How can local communities be empowered to participate in shaping their neighbourhoods and influencing development decisions?
• Sustainable Urban Planning: How can Istanbul balance economic growth with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage and environmental sustainability?

The 2018 Biennial showcased a plethora of inspiring projects that aimed to address these challenges. Examples included:

Beyond the Exhibition: Lasting Impact

While the 2018 Istanbul Design Biennial has concluded, its reverberations continue to be felt in the city’s urban landscape. The conversations sparked during the event have contributed to a growing awareness of the importance of inclusive and equitable design practices. Several projects showcased at the Biennial have been implemented or are currently under development, transforming neighbourhoods and empowering communities.

In addition to tangible outcomes, the IDB 2018 left behind a valuable legacy: a network of architects, designers, urban planners, and community leaders who continue to collaborate on initiatives aimed at creating “a good neighbourhood” for all. The Biennial’s success underscores the power of design as a catalyst for positive social change, fostering dialogue, innovation, and a collective vision for a more equitable future.

Let us not forget that while grand visions are important, it is often in the minutiae – the carefully designed public benches encouraging conversation, the community gardens bringing people together, the accessible walkways connecting diverse neighborhoods – that “a good neighbourhood” truly comes to life.