In collaboration with Beşiktaş Municipality, the Turkish Society of Cardiology, and Boehringer Ingelheim, we designed the Yeşim Park Active Living Space as an innovative public area that promotes active living in the city.
Located in Akat Neighborhood, Beşiktaş, Istanbul, this unique space was conceived as an inclusive and accessible meeting point where individuals aged 65 and over — who represent a significant portion of the population — as well as users of all ages, can embrace an active lifestyle. Starting from the inadequacy of the existing sports area, we identified local needs through a comprehensive workshop with community stakeholders and transformed the site with a design by Abra Design Studio.
The park features two main sports areas designed to meet the individual and group exercise needs of different age groups. The individual workout wall, equipped with bodyweight training apparatus, and the collective activity area for practices like yoga and pilates aim to make healthy living a part of daily routines. All equipment was selected with the guidance of the Beşiktaş Municipality 65+ Life Office to ensure suitability for individuals aged 65 and over. Additionally, visitors can access professional exercise programs via the Turkish Society of Cardiology’s “Türkiye’nin Kalbi” platform by scanning the QR codes located throughout the area.
As Onaranlar Kulübü, with this project we not only created a physical space but also reaffirmed the transformative power of public spaces in building healthy communities. Situated right in the heart of the city, the Yeşim Park Active Living Space offers an experience that engages both body and mind, strengthening one’s connection with life.
Project Location: Yeşim Park, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Project Area: 110 m²
Project Start Year: 2024
Project Completion Year: 2024
Project Team: Onaranlar Kulübü
Client: Turkish Society of Cardiology
Project Supporter: Boehringer Ingelheim
Project Stakeholders: Beşiktaş Municipality, Beşiktaş Municipality 65+ Life Office
Site Design: Abra Design Studio (Başak Bakkaloğlu, Cemal Çobanoğlu)
Graphic Design: Umut Erkin Güngör
Project Coordination: Aytekin Gezici
Production and Site Management: Mervan Önen
Corporate Communications: Mervenaz Çiçekdiken
Production: Unchained Workshop, Kurtuluş Demir Doğrama
Photography and Video: Flashbang Productions
