Urban planning processes in Türkiye have been profoundly shaped by historical, cultural, and sociological divergences between the East and the West, creating a deep-seated dichotomy in urban development. While the West has built its planning traditions on the foundations of capitalism and rational authority, the East has exhibited a fragmented approach influenced by collective ownership, traditional authority, and a flexible perception of time and space. Despite its modernization efforts, Türkiye historically retains characteristics of an Eastern society, which are directly reflected in its urbanization processes.One pivotal milestone in Türkiye’s urban planning was the construction of Ankara as a planned capital. However, this initiative was hindered by the transfer of rural practices to urban settings, informal housing (gecekondus), the absence of class consciousness, and the dominance of centralized authority, resulting in relative failure. As in many areas of life, attempts by the ruling elite to implement Western models of urbanization were often disrupted by the population's adherence to feudal structures and traditional norms. This study asserts that the core inefficiencies in Türkiye’s urban planning stem from authoritarian governance, a lack of urban consciousness, and unresolved property ownership issues. Informal housing and profit-driven urban transformation projects further undermine planning efficiency, while the cultural flexibility in time and space perception contrasts sharply with the rationality inherent in Western norms. In conclusion, advancing Türkiye’s urban planning culture requires adopting Western norms as a framework, yet adapting them to align with local dynamics. Developing a planning approach that acknowledges Türkiye’s unique socio-cultural characteristics while integrating universal urbanization principles is imperative for sustainable development.