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A stretch of land abutting the Marmara Sea is set for a complete overhaul according to newly released images from American architectural practice Forum Studio. The flashy renderings depict a six-tower development behind a network of manmade islands, which serve as both a marina and a protective seawall. The mixed-use Pearl of Istanbul would provide a platform for residential, hotel, cultural, and retail programs spread across a diverse landscape of public spaces.
Surrounded by a connected landmass that will host a broad range of nightlife, entertainment, and marine research facilities, the marina is slated to accommodate approximately 500 yachts and even a cruise ship deck. The islands are meant to emulate a string of pearls, while the terraced form of the buildings on the mainland resemble the undulating rhythm of a shell.
The proposed highrises will sprout from a podium activated by retail, restaurants, and public spaces. The residential units — expected to include both luxury condominiums and more affordable apartments — have been arranged to maximize view corridors and natural sunlight. A pattern of shifted balconies acts as a sunshade system to reduce solar heat gain. Vegetated roofs, rainwater harvesting, a grey water system, and recycled construction materials will be just some of the tangible examples of the project's close attention to the environment.
A private green space will be situated in the middle of the project's residential component while the hotel program occupies the western edge of the site. The residential towers are expected to be clad in clear glazing, anodized clear metal, and zinc metal panels, with the hotel portion articulated by clear glazing, reflective units, and dichroic glass. Realization of the entire master plan has been targeted for 2023.
Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.
