Hamdi Tekin, from Istanbul Arel University, Turkey, received a grant to participate in the “International 30 August Scientific Research Symposium”, held between 28 and 31-08-2019 in Izmir, Turkey.

Paper presented: Overview of Middle Class Mass Housing Projects-A Case of Istanbul.

Abstract:

In metropolitan cities, housing is undoubtedly one of the main problem in the society. Most of the time, limited space hinders widespread mass housing projects especially in the centeral locations. Another big concern is high cost of the apartments and rents. This issue is really challenging for many countries. Constrıuction sector has a leading role in the economy affecting hundreds of other sectors in Turkey. Istanbul with about 15 million population is one of the most crowded city in the Europe. Therefore, many housing projects have been carried out. Housing Development Administration (TOKI) supported by the government has recently the leading role in solving housing problem in not only Istanbul but also other cities in Turkey. While private sector invests mainly on luxury mass housing projects, TOKI invests also on middle class mass housing projects in order to help people with lower income to own a new apartment. In this study, a qualitative study has been conducted to highlight the current state of middle class mass housing projects in Istanbul in addition to the gathering data from different resources. Interviews have been held with TOKI delegates, experts working on mass housing projects and other stakeholders. In conclusion, majority of middle class mass housing problem has been being solved by TOKI. In central places, it is not so easy to find middle class housing structure. After urban renewal rule, most of the old and middle class housing have turned out to be luxury style. Thanks to TOKI, many middle class mass housing projects have been finalized. Nevertheless, the need for more middle mass housing projects still continues because of high cost of new apartments.

Hamdi Tekin met with many experts working on different topics and established new networks:

“To discuss my topic with prestigious experts from different fields, widened my horizon for my prospective studies.”