Located in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey, the İşbank Painting Sculpture Museum underwent a remarkable restoration led by TEGET architects in 2023. With a floor area spanning 2023 square meters, this project aimed to preserve the historical integrity of the building while equipping it with modern amenities essential for a contemporary museum experience.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
The restoration project embraced a holistic approach, recognizing the building’s three lifespans and harnessing its layered potential. The primary objective was to safeguard the historical structure’s spatial articulation, atmosphere, materials, and patina while seamlessly integrating modern technical requirements. This involved creating a new multifunctional core structure within the interior to accommodate structural, mechanical, and electrical needs without compromising the existing facade or structural integrity.
Harmonizing Old and New
The original structure, bathed in natural light, features cubic spaces painted in light colors, while the core boasts a contrasting ambiance illuminated by artificial light. High, spacious ceilings characterize the shell, adorned with oil paintings, while the core houses three-dimensional installations and sculptures against its wide galleries. The restoration carefully preserved the historical staircase, showcasing hand-carved works hidden beneath layers of paint, bridging the gap between the old and the new.
Creating a Modern Museum Experience
The museum’s layout spans multiple floors, each housing various functions ranging from exhibition areas to management offices and a restaurant. A seamless visual experience is established between floors through atriums within the new core building, enhancing connectivity and flow throughout the museum. Situated on Istiklal Street, a bustling pedestrian artery, the museum maintains its strong connection with the city while serving as a cultural hub for art enthusiasts and visitors alike.
The İşbank Painting Sculpture Museum stands as a testament to the successful integration of historical preservation and contemporary functionality, breathing new life into Istanbul’s cultural landscape while honoring its rich heritage.
