Suyabatmaz Demirel Architects shared with us their design for the Goksu Rope Factory Lofts in Istanbul. The new owner of this derelict factory wanted to turn his investment into a high-end residential project consisting of various sized lofts. After visiting the site, our major concern became clear. Since the 17.000m2 building was used many years for industrial production, it should still deliver the authentic atmosphere even after it has been rehabilitated for new functions. In order to keep the intangible precipitation of this place, a subtle and humble design strategy was necessary. More images and architects’ description after the break.
The unique topography of Istanbul has created many small creeks which collects waters from the hills and carry to Bosporus. The small villages aligned on the Bosporus are mostly situated at the tip of these small creeks inside the valleys. Many of these creeks had been dried because of extensive building activities in the valleys. However, Goksu is one of these creeks which had survived to be alive until now. Alongside Goksu, a bit further inside from the Bosporus, there lies a large rope (hawser) factory which has been abandoned for many years.
