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In the present era, technological advancements are transforming how local governments operate, leading to substantial changes in their functioning. Information technologies, big data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence are enhancing local government operations’ efficiency (Bason, 2010; Barns, 2018; Scholl & Kemp, 2016). In this context, smart city applications represent one of the most prominent examples of technological transformation (Barns, 2018; Batagan, 2011; Batty et al., 2012; Yigitcanlar & Velibeyoglu, 2008). The concept of smart cities has evolved from the 1990s to the present day (Sengers et al., 2016). Initially, the focus was on digital and technological aspects, with information and communications technology (ICT) being the key element of urban intelligence. Later, the importance of human capital in urban development was recognized as a primary factor (Cowley & Caprotti, 2019; Sengers et al., 2016) because being smart is not just about technology, but also about being socially inclusive (Caragliu et al., 2011; Tranos & Gertner, 2012). Because of technological advancements, smart cities aim to enhance livability and sustainability and prioritize citizens. Smart cities not only focus on technological infrastructure but also emphasize the importance of green and sustainable environments (Batagan, 2011; Batty et al., 2012).
A wide gap between theory and practice has emerged owing to a lack of uniformity in the definition and the concept of smart cities. A severe lack of planning methodologies that support the evaluation models of smartness levels also exists (Caragliu et al., 2011; Kourtit et al., 2012; Lombardi et al., 2012; Srivastava & Vakali, 2012). However, a model that can identify the boundaries of each action and integrate them into a holistic view would be an effective tool for planners and decision-makers (Dirks & Keeling, 2009; Kanter & Litow, 2009). A planning scheme based on the specific local context features and smart good practices could outline paths and guidelines for complete smart planning (Barns, 2018). In other respects, urban living labs (ULLs) play a crucial role in implementing smart city applications. They are essential for the successful deployment of such technologies. The integration of ULLs into local government practices is supported by various similar and distinct studies worldwide (Menny et al., 2018). In this article we address how smart cities can leverage technological advancements, examine the preservation and improvement of urban landscapes, and focus on the sustainable development of green spaces, particularly in large cities like Istanbul. Thus, the article’s theoretical framework revolves around whether ULLs can provide solutions to urban problems. The literature encompasses two main themes—global and urban scales—focusing on urban problems. In the subsequent sections of the article, we explore solutions provided by ULLs to urban problems in Istanbul, using Istanbul’s urban landscaping management and assessment as an example.