Gensler’s Istanbul theme park looks to city’s past

15 August 2011 | By Elizabeth Hopkirk

Gensler has won a design competition for a 150ha mixed-use development in Istanbul.

It will contain the region’s first theme park as well as residential, office, retail, and hospitality and 60ha of open spaces and parks.

“This is a masterplanning project that essentially creates a city within a city, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it,” says Marty Borko, principal and leader of Gensler’s mixed-use practice.

The City of Seven Gardens masterplan was inspired by Istanbul’s nickname, the City on Seven Hills.

Turkey’s largest city, which stands at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has a history stretching back 2,000 years.

“As the plan developed, we kept both ’new’ and ’old’ in mind,” said design director Tom Sze.

“We’re incorporating best practices around planning, design and sustainability – building around existing transportation routes, maximising proximity and views to the lake, creating dynamic open spaces – while respecting the region’s rich history and culture.”

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