Opened in March, the Peninsula Istanbul comprises four waterfront structures—three historical landmarks and one new build—along the Bosphorus Strait. The property, which is part of the Karaköy district’s Galataport mixed-used development, effortlessly bonds early-20th-century design sensibility with an invigorating modern ethos.
Executed by designer and architect Zeynep Fadillioglu, the design reinterprets styles and patterns of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires to infuse a contemporary sense of place, complemented by an emphasis on craftsmanship. “It was a welcomed challenge to create a seamless transition between these buildings in order to design a new addition to the timeless and exquisite Peninsula hotel designs,” Fadillioglu says. “We have worked with the best artists trying to obtain the finest of craftsmanship. The layering of colors, textures, patterns, and materials intended to reflect the multi-layered nature of Istanbul’s abundant culture resonating through centuries.”
Guests are met by lush gardens upon arrival at the Peninsula Istanbul. Housed within Turkey’s first modern cruise terminal, the lobby occupies a refurbished glass-fronted heritage structure. The palatial, sundrenched interior evokes drama with double-height ceilings and sprawling windows that amplify the grand openness.
In addition to an all-day eatery in the lobby, guests may also dine at rooftop restaurant Gallada, where the ornate dining room is layered with Turkish fabrics, fixtures, and mosaic tiles. An alfresco terrace distinguished by planted pomegranate trees and a cascading fountain also awaits.
The onsite Peninsula Spa touts an 82-foot-long indoor pool equipped with submerged speakers, a fitness center, saunas, steam rooms, a pair of opulent hammams, eight treatment rooms, and dual relaxation rooms. A heated outdoor pool with cabanas—an additional dining option—is also featured along the Bosphorus.
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