Alone against the market: building by building transformation of a middle-class neighbourhood in Istanbul

Abstract

Kozyata & gbreve;& imath; neighbourhood's parcel-based urban transformation generates subtle yet significant socio-spatial transformations in a middle-class district. Although visible resistance is limited, the prolonged and ambiguous process quietly reshapes everyday social life, alters socio-demographic profiles, and produces new forms of vulnerability. Tensions emerge between long-term residents and more transient newcomers, often younger professionals prioritising location over community. Driven by market dynamics and seismic risk policy, transformation advances without collective planning, accelerating demographic shifts and eroding trust. This study highlights these hidden impacts and calls for inclusive, equity-based urban governance that protects vulnerable groups and sustains community resilience amid redevelopment.