Revitalization of Fener and Balat, Istanbul, Turkey

Abstract

This project aims to analyze the existing context and propose a strategy to revitalize Fener and Balat, which are two historic districts in Istanbul. During the past two centuries, economic changes, modernization movements and new planning strategies throughout the country have given the city a new shape. Individual buildings, streets, and entire sub-districts exist in various stages of disrepair. But today, Fener and Balat still preserve their distinctive character in their historic major structures, as well as historic commercial and residential districts. This unique character can be seen the districts' assets which are documented in this project along with the many liabilities. This revitalization project focuses on restoring and preserving the human-scaled buildings and pedestrian oriented streets, while creating cultural and tourist-oriented facilities to help economically revitalize the neighborhood. This project serves as a prototype for the revitalization of other historic neighborhoods in Istanbul and other historic Turkish cities.