Galataport Istanbul, Turkey

The challenge of the Galataport project was a daunting one: to transform an underused former customs area into a waterside tourist destination of restored historic buildings, fine dining, shopping and a hub for arts and culture. After eight years of work, this 112,000-m2 project was completed on 30 September 2021.

All Galataport buildings use seawater as their coolant medium. This natural solution reduces energy consumption by 34% compared with gas.

The central design ethos is one of an outdoor urban fabric whose low-rise buildings integrate harmoniously with the heritage of the site. A unique hatch system has been created to provide access to the world’s first underground cruise terminal. From design through to construction and operation, the project owners have taken enormous care to minimise its environmental impact through solutions ranging from energy optimisation and green roofs to ensuring water quality in providing excellent public transport connections. Galataport Istanbul is the second-largest project in Europe to be awarded LEED Platinum certification.

12 Million

That’s how many visitors were welcomed by Galataport in its first year of operation.

Technical Sheet

• Developer: Galataport Istanbul Port Management and Investments Inc.

• Financiers: Dogus Group, BLG Capital and a consortium of Turkish banks