Esma Sultan Event Space (Formerly Mansion)

Category: Cultural, Residential
Type: Event Space, House
Location: Ortaköy, Beşiktaş
Date: 1873-1877 / 2000-2002
Designer: Sarkis Balyan / Gökhan Avcıoğlu
Period: Ottoman Empire
Photos: Ali Bekman Photography

The Esma Sultan Mansion, situated prominently on the Bosphorus in Ortaköy, was designed by the renowned imperial architect Sarkis Balyan and constructed between 1873 and 1875 for the daughter of Sultan Abdülaziz. Originally a three-story brick structure reflecting the neoclassical and eclectic tastes of the late Ottoman era, the building suffered a catastrophic fire in 1975 that left only its perimeter walls standing. Its subsequent transformation in 2001 by GAD Architecture introduced a contemporary glass and steel pavilion within the historic masonry shell, creating a sophisticated dialogue between the nineteenth-century ruins and modern transparency. Today, it stands as a significant example of adaptive reuse, where the weathered brick facade serves as a protective envelope for a minimalist interior designed for high-profile events and cultural gatherings.

A scenic view of the Bosphorus featuring the Ortaköy Mosque with its distinctive dome and minarets, alongside historical buildings and contemporary structures along the waterfront.
Historic brick building with large windows and partially exposed brickwork, set in an outdoor area with people and trees.
A historic brick building illuminated at dusk, featuring large windows and an outdoor event area with guests. In the background, tall minarets and a dome structure are visible against a blue sky.
Exterior view of an illuminated historic building with a landscaped garden and outdoor dining setup at dusk.
A historic brick building with large windows, partially in ruins, set against a blue sky with clouds.
Interior view of a modern staircase with wooden steps and glass railings, illuminated by colorful lights in a contemporary setting.
View of a modern glass elevator in front of a historic brick building structure with large windows.
Interior view of a partially renovated building featuring exposed brick walls, structural columns, and a metal framed ceiling, with construction scaffolding in the background.
Interior view of a modern glass structure integrated with an ancient brick building, featuring a curved staircase and visible garden outside.
Looking up at a glass-covered courtyard between brick buildings with a clear blue sky above.
Interior view of a spacious modern building with large glass walls and beams of sunlight creating shadows on the floor.
Spacious interior view of a modern building with tall concrete columns, large windows, and a carpeted floor, featuring ambient lighting and a minimalist design.
Close-up of a chrome metal bracket attached to a cylindrical pole, supporting a glass panel with visible modern design elements.
Elegant event space with tall glass walls, warm lighting, and white chairs arranged for a ceremony. Floral decorations and a stage are visible in the center.

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