Tersane Istanbul partners with 1508 London to shape landmark two-part project

International studio 1508 London will design the signature residences at Tersane Istanbul โ€“ a landmark redevelopment transforming Tรผrkiyeโ€™s largest industrial heritage site. Here’s a sneak peek…

Interiors of Ailee Residences, designed by 1508 London

On the historic shores of Istanbulโ€™s Golden Horn, a new chapter in design-led urban regeneration is unfolding. Tersane Istanbul, the ambitious redevelopment of the cityโ€™s 600-year-old Ottoman shipyards, has unveiled a collaboration with globally renowned interior design studio 1508 London to craft the interiors for its signature residential offerings: Yalฤฑ Apartments (Zone 1 โ€“ Velaris) and Ailรฉe Residences (Zone 2).

Glass exterior of Ailee Residences Istanbul, overlooking beach and oceana

Ailรฉe Residences | Image credit: Tersane Living / 1508 London

The partnership signals a defining moment for the waterfront destination, positioning design at the forefront of its transformation from historic industrial docklands into a contemporary cultural and lifestyle district.

โ€œTersane Istanbul represents an extraordinary convergence of heritage, craftsmanship and contemporary placemaking โ€” values that sit at the heart of our design approach,โ€ said Hamish Brown, Partner at 1508 London. โ€œThis project allows us to create a truly bespoke and enduring residential experience rooted in Istanbulโ€™s unique identity.โ€

Two expressions, one cohesive vision

The developmentโ€™s residential component is divided into two complementary zones, each expressing a distinct character while maintaining a cohesive overarching vision.

Yalฤฑ Apartments (Zone 1 โ€“ Velaris) adopt a more introspective, mature tone. Drawing on Istanbulโ€™s layered past, the interiors combine urban eclecticism with subtle mid-century influences. Rich palettes, tactile materials and carefully proportioned layouts create spaces that feel confident, timeless and grounded in place.

Zone 1 Primary Bedroom

Zone 1 Primary Bedroom | Image credit: Tersane Living / 1508 London

In contrast, Ailรฉe Residences (Zone 2) take inspiration from the neighbouring hospitality concept, Ailรฉe Istanbul. Here, the atmosphere is lighter and more playful. A neutral base palette is animated with sculptural furniture, curated artworks and moments of colour, creating interiors that feel social, expressive and contemporary.

Across both zones, references to the siteโ€™s industrial maritime history are conveyed through structure, material weight and spatial rhythm rather than literal motifs. The result is a subtle reinterpretation of heritage, designed to support wellbeing and elevate everyday living.

Zone 2 Penthouse Dining Area

Zone 2 Penthouse Dining Area | Image credit: Tersane Living / 1508 London

Beyond the private realm

Residential amenities, including a Club House and Terrace Pool, are conceived as natural extensions of the home. Intelligent spatial planning maximises daylight and strengthens indoor-outdoor connections, reinforcing a lifestyle centred on gathering, reflection and daily ritual.

โ€œThe aim was to create homes that residents grow into over time โ€” spaces that reveal more with each day,โ€ noted Marina Breves, Regional Director at 1508 London. โ€œThe interiors evoke the feeling of being well-travelled โ€” considered, personal and quietly expressive.โ€

A new design landmark for Istanbul

Tersane Istanbulโ€™s broader masterplan integrates luxury hospitality, retail and cultural programming within a revitalised historic setting. The development includes Rixos Tersane Istanbul and Ailรฉe Istanbul, with Delano Istanbul set to follow. Architectural contributions from Foster + Partners and TabanlฤฑoฤŸlu Architects further reinforce its international design credentials.

Scheduled for completion in 2027, the residential offering positions Tersane Istanbul as a new benchmark in Istanbulโ€™s evolving luxury landscape โ€” where maritime heritage and contemporary design converge on a global stage.