The first phase of FREA’s ‘Der-Zemin’ project, which won first prize in the 1st Region of the ‘İstanbul is Yours! Golden Horn Shores Design Competition,’ has been completed. The project brought lasting urban design touches to ensure pedestrian continuity by reformulating sense of belonging in the users, which the nature of the Golden Horn deserves, with new or improved user scenarios. It aims to strengthen historical and cultural identity of the area between Eminönü and Unkapanı, one of the most important public sites of İstanbul.

Led by the İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the project aims to transform the area in the heart of Eminönü, into a public square that reconnects with residents and the sea. As part of coastal and environmental improvements from Eminönü Square to Unkapanı Bridge, the chaotic appearance caused by bus terminals and vehicle parking lots was eliminated and the area was pedestrianised.

Within the scope of the project, Ragıp Gümüşpala Street line was redesigned with measures to enhance pedestrian and vehicular safety. New pedestrian paths were created along the Alibeyköy–Eminönü Tram Line, and the existing ones were renovated. The adjustments for the new IETT bus terminals ensure integration of the tram and metro systems. Areas previously designated for IETT bus terminalswere pedestrianised. The bus stops in the square were relocated 200 metres toward the metro station entrances. With uninterrupted pedestrian access across the 116,000-square-metre area, the implementation brought 26,000-square-metre area of green space, with townscape of viewing steps, walking and cycling paths.