THE MEMORY AND FUTURE OF CITIES: PROF. DR. UFUK FATİH KÜÇÜKALİ BRINGS ANEW DIMENSION TO URBAN IMAGE THEORY

Prof. Dr. Ufuk Fatih Küçükali, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Design at Istanbul
Aydın University, has made a significant theoretical contribution to urban studies by reevaluating Kevin Lynch’s classic Urban Image Theory (1960) through the lens of 21stcentury urban complexity and dynamics.
Expanding the classic model’s five elements—Paths, Edges, Districts, Nodes,
and Landmarks—in light of contemporary challenges, Prof. Dr. Küçükali emphasizes that
today’s cities can no longer be comprehended solely through physical legibility. By
integrating three critical new dimensions—Memory, Ecology, and Accessibility—he
establishes a holistic model that addresses urban image at the intersection of social
experience, collective memory, climate resilience, and spatial justice.
This analytical reading, developed through Turkish cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir,
and Bursa, opens up vital discussions ranging from the preservation of collective
memory during urban transformation to biophilic design principles, and from inclusive
public spaces to spatial identity.
You can access the full article and explore the complete theoretical framework
at Kentlerin Hafızası, Mekânların Kimliği – Prof.Dr. Ufuk Fatih Küçükali – Akademik
Akıl.