Reimagining Urban Elements: Spatial Representation of Art through Industrial Design

Abstract

This paper examines how everyday public objects, such as urban furniture, can be transformed through artistic interventions and explores the role of industrial design in this process. In the context of rapid urbanization, public spaces are no longer perceived solely through their functional value but are increasingly shaped by aesthetic, cultural, and experiential dimensions. Within this framework, the intersection between art and design opens up possibilities for new spatial narratives, interactive surfaces, and alternative modes of use in the urban environment. Art installations turn the viewer into an active participant rather than a passive observer. When integrated with objects like urban furniture, these artistic approaches imbue everyday fixtures with conceptual depth and visual significance. Industrial design plays a vital role in this transformation by offering the necessary technical infrastructure, such as material knowledge, production methods, and ergonomic considerations, that make such artistic applications feasible in public space. This article presents a theoretical framework on the relationship between art and design and substantiates it with selected examples from both international and local contexts. Projects such as Superkilen Park (Copenhagen), Crown Fountain (Chicago), and Light Benches (Germany) are analyzed alongside the Beyoğlu Culture Route project in Istanbul. The findings reveal that urban furniture can evolve beyond its utilitarian function and serve as carriers of cultural representation and social interaction. In this regard, integrating art into public object design should be considered a strategic approach to enhancing both urban identity and user experience in public spaces.