Timeless Classic!

By Savitha Hira with inputs from Sonal Mamoowala

Photography: Ali Bekman; courtesy the architect

 

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Basking in the rich Victorian overtures of design, this century-old home in Istanbul is a steal with its contemporary design elements...

Rising up to the challenge of meeting the high aesthetic bent of a well-travelled, London-based businessman, and giving in to his passion for the classic, interior architects and designers Yasemin Arpac and Sabahattin Emir of Istanbul-based design office, Ofist, have re- designed and largely restored this old home to its original Victorian splendour.

 

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So what began as an exercise in refurbishing by replacing aluminum radiators and plastic window frames with old cast iron radiators and wooden frames; reproducing wall embellishments by creating moulds from the existing original parts; sourcing Turkey’s most ordinary Marmara marble (commonly seen in hamams and cemeteries) with its smoky irregular patterns; became a labour of love as doors were eliminated and the interiors opened up with just frames as demarcaters, and the homeowner’s antiques and collectibles were brought in to furnish the premises.

 

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The restrained palette of colours and materials throughout this period styled apartment lends a natural magnificence to this stately home. The all-white envelope is warmly interrupted by the oak-wood-like floor boards and antique ceramic tiles in earthy tones; reinforcing the warmth of feeling grounded.

 

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Playing subtly on contemporary needs and luxuries, the architects introduce Corian - an artificial material known for its unmatched  neatness and flawless finishes – to the bathrooms, where everything below the splash level, including the tub, shower, basin and flooring is impeccably dressed in Corian and contrasted with beige marble and black slate above, right up to the ceiling.

 

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Lighting completes the nostalgia-evoking ethos with abundant natural light percolating into the home, complimented by suspended light sconces of transparent glass, in singles and clusters. Adding the final touch of pizzazz are a selection of portraits, with emphasis on character and charm, bringing the apartment alive in the present!