Foster + Partners Unveils Golden Horn Retail Plaza Plans

Foster + Partners has revealed plans for a new luxury retail plaza along the northern edge of Istanbul’s Golden Horn, marking a key phase in the city’s ongoing waterfront transformation. The project forms part of the larger Tersane masterplan, which reclaims 1.6 kilometres of underused shoreline to create a vibrant, publicly accessible precinct blending culture, commerce and green space.

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Positioned within walking distance of Istanbul’s major historic landmarks, the Golden Horn Plaza introduces a sequence of tree-lined pavilions designed to encourage walking and outdoor leisure. The architects describe the development as both an urban and environmental initiative, balancing contemporary retail ambition with sensitivity to the site’s maritime and industrial heritage.

The design incorporates shaded pathways, cooling water features and a canopy of trees to create a comfortable microclimate throughout the year. Covered terraces and a cantilevered restaurant provide spaces for rest and recreation, while offering panoramic views across the estuary. The scale and proportion of the pavilions reference the site’s layered history, with flexible layouts ensuring adaptability to future needs.

Landscaping plays a pivotal role, drawing inspiration from Istanbul’s historic gardens to support biodiversity and reduce heat gain. Between the retail plaza and the waterfront, a new public square has been planned as a civic gathering space for cultural events and performances, further strengthening the connection between commerce and community.

Head of studio Nigel Dancey describes the project as an “integral part of the Tersane vision”, emphasising how the architecture and landscaping “work in harmony to create a year-round cultural and lifestyle destination”.

The Golden Horn Plaza exemplifies Foster + Partners’ commitment to urban regeneration through design that bridges past and present, enriching the waterfront with spaces for both local residents and visitors to enjoy.

Images courtesy of Foster + Partners via Designboom

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