foster + partners reveals plans for retail plaza on istanbul’s historic golden horn

Foster + Partners to design retail plaza in Istanbul’s golden horn

Foster + Partners unveils plans for a luxury retail plaza set along the northern edge of Istanbul’s Golden Horn, part of a wider waterfront redevelopment that reclaims 1.6 kilometers of underused shoreline. The project is located within walking distance of major historic sites and combines contemporary commercial design with references to the area’s maritime and industrial past. Designed as a walkable, tree-shaded sequence of pavilions, the plaza anchors a large-scale urban transformation, the Tersane masterplan, that introduces public promenades, green spaces, cultural venues, and mixed-use buildings to the Golden Horn estuary.

Golden Horn Plaza is an integral part of the transformative masterplan for Istanbul’s waterfront | images courtesy of Foster + Partners

cantilevered restaurant to offer sweeping views of the city

The architects at Foster + Partners conceived the Golden Horn Plaza to be a top spot for high-end brands from around the world. They also planned the surrounding area to be comfortable for the environment and welcoming for public use by including a canopy of trees, cooling water features, and shaded pathways to moderate the local microclimate while offering spaces for respite and circulation. Interspersed throughout are covered terraces and a cantilevered restaurant offering sweeping views across the estuary. Foster + Partners notes that the scale and proportion of the development reference the site’s layered history, with flexible storefronts and pavilions allowing for long-term adaptability.

Landscaping is inspired by Istanbul’s historic gardens, and it plays a crucial role in heat mitigation and environmental well-being. Between the plaza and the waterfront, a new public square serves as a civic platform for year-round events and cultural programming. Described by Foster + Partners as an ‘integral part’ of the overall Tersane vision, the project reflects the studio’s longstanding interest in urban regeneration and placemaking. ‘The architecture and landscaping work in harmony,’ says head of studio Nigel Dancey, ‘to create a year-round cultural and lifestyle destination.’

the development is completely walkable – with a network of shaded streets between the pavilions

the plaza offers an exclusive retail experience that embodies artisanal craftsmanship and commitment to excellence

the plaza is within walking distance of some of the city’s most notable historic landmarks

project info:

name: Golden Horn Plaza

architect:  Foster + Partners | @fosterandpartners

location: Istanbul, Turkey

lead architects: Nigel Dancey, Nicola Scaranaro

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