Foster + Partners has unveiled plans for Golden Horn Plaza, a waterfront retail complex set to redefine luxury shopping in Istanbul. The UK-based architecture studio is designing the project to overlook the Golden Horn estuary, an inlet of the Bosphorus Strait, offering dramatic waterside views and architectural innovation. At its heart, the plaza will feature a cantilevered restaurant on the upper level, designed with a curved roof that resembles a flying saucer. Covered terraces on the same level will provide panoramic views across the estuary.
The complex will consist of a network of interconnected, two-storey retail pavilions housing premium brands. Each unit is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for adjustable interiors and façades to adapt to evolving commercial needs. These varied structures will come together to form a vibrant, layered streetscape, intended to mirror the character of the surrounding waterfront.
Walkable Cultural Destination with Heritage-Inspired Landscaping
Golden Horn Plaza is part of the broader Tersane masterplan, a 1.6-kilometre revitalisation of previously unused shoreline. The goal is to transform this stretch of Istanbul’s waterfront into a dynamic, walkable public promenade blending residential, cultural, and commercial offerings. Foster + Partners emphasised the importance of accessibility, incorporating shaded walkways that weave between the buildings to invite year-round use.
Landscape design also plays a central role in the project. Inspired by Istanbul’s historic gardens, the outdoor space will include a tree canopy and water features aimed at naturally cooling the site. A green public square between the plaza and the waterfront will serve as a venue for cultural events, designed to function as “a new public space for the city.”
Studio partner Nicola Scaranaro stated, “We are delighted to be working on this project, which will breathe new life into Istanbul’s waterfront with a spectacular luxury retail offering and a range of vibrant public spaces.” Head of Studio Nigel Dancey added, “The scale and proportions of the development reflect the city’s maritime industrial heritage – ensuring it is in keeping with the layered historic surroundings. Architecture and landscaping work in harmony with one another to create a year-round cultural and lifestyle destination.”
Part of a Broader Architectural Revival in Istanbul
Golden Horn Plaza will be situated within walking distance of several of Istanbul’s most significant historic landmarks. In response to this context, Foster + Partners has carefully scaled the project to respect its surroundings while introducing modern design elements. While each retail pavilion is linked, the flexibility of their design will allow individual brands to evolve over time.
The project continues Foster + Partners’ legacy of high-profile international works. The studio, founded in 1967 by Pritzker Prize laureate Norman Foster, is also currently leading designs for the Queen Elizabeth II memorial in London and Paraguay’s tallest skyscraper. Meanwhile, Istanbul continues to draw international attention in the architectural world. Renzo Piano Building Workshop recently completed the Istanbul Modern museum, and KPF delivered the Ziraat Bank Headquarters twin towers.
Golden Horn Plaza aims not only to elevate the city’s retail offering but also to create a destination where commerce, culture, and community come together by the water.