Text description provided by the architects. The refurbishment of the Besiktas Fish Market is not a design and realization process that was prosecuted in an accustomed manner. It is not intended to be carried through to an incomputable state. On the contrary, the aspiration is to initiate a dynamic outset by the gradual functional supplements and substitutions and even with the immediate effects of artistic approaches.
The architectural decisions were constituted with a simplistic approach to form and solutions, in order to allow and welcome revolution in this 26x23/2 triangular space which can subsist with temporary art installations and elements that, only in the course of time, generate themselves through the medium of color, texture and light.
The space mimics a piece of cloth lifted from the corners or a seashell. A junction of three roads thrives with transverse movements. Furthermore the ceiling has been kept high increasing the openness and view capacity of the restaurants. This visual linkage spontaneously promotes an invitation both towards the inside and outside.
The concept of the refurbishment is primarily based on eliminating the distress of neglect, lack of infrastructure and hygiene while preparing the stall and shop owners for a more professional environment. The seafood departments of the many new supermarkets and shopping malls were constructing a more trustworthy appearance with their infrastructure, displays and customer relations. The aim was to take BFM up to a competing level.
Besides the fishmongers, greengrocers have been placed under this shell and furthermore during the restricted fishing seasons other products are put on sale. In the near future it is anticipated to have florists along the main road. This opportunity has been offered to the tradesmen with lesser stalls by the other tradesmen. The necessity of precise refinements observed during the opening period will be resolved by arrangements amongst the tradesmen and restaurant owners, taking advantage of the next restricted fishing season.
In this well-loved market neighborhood; giving your grandmother’s chair to a restaurant or having a conversation about how the owner can put his inheritance and luck to better use are both seen as important contributions.
As resources build-up and with sponsorships, another intention is transforming the facades of the surrounding buildings to a platform for artistic events such as the International Istanbul Biennale or more local events.
On the other hand sharing insight on the restricted functioning domain of the daily or professional design-manufacturing and also encouraging the local authorities and institutions which provide education in this field about public space projects had been targeted.
Besiktas Municipality and personally Mister Mayor Ismail Unal who have been of utmost support up until this phase are still involved in the intellectual/experimental process of contributions and actions.
The municipality has taken on an admirable risk/responsibility by bringing together the tradesmen, who constantly complain about penalties issued by the municipality and the ministries; providing them with an opportunity to find solutions by the process of sponsorships and collective labor. (Unfortunately the complaints and being unable to get together is a common dilemma)
