Introduction
Istanbul is a beautiful city right on the Bosporus, part of the country of Turkey. With a rich history and culture, the city of Istanbul is one of the most dynamic and vibrant cities in the region. Its population is estimated at 17 million inhabitants, making it the fifth-most populous city in the world. But, like any modern city in the 21st century, the skyline of Istanbul would not be complete without its skyscrapers. How did Istanbul come to feature such high rising structures?
Overview of Istanbul’s Skycrapers
Istanbul’s skyscrapers are part of what has come to be known as the “Golden Horn,” the area which faces the northern portion of the Bosporus and is encircled by the waters of the Golden Horn. This area offers a stunning view of the city of Istanbul, and is where most of the city’s skyscrapers are located. Istanbul is now home to the world’s 15th-tallest building, the 188-metre-high (617 ft) Marmara Istanbul Hotel Tower, built in 2017. Other impressive skyscrapers that line the city include the Sapphire Tower, Istanbul Sapphire, and the Atakoy Tower, all standing at around 170 metres high (560 ft).
Evolution of Istanbul’s Skyline
Before the 21st century, Istanbul’s skyline was mostly made up of 2 to 4-story buildings. In the last decade, this has changed with the building of modern skyscrapers in the downtown area. The majority of the current skyscrapers in Istanbul were built between 2007 and 2012, as the government provided economic incentives for developers to construct tall structures with modern designs.
In 2012, the building of the Sapphire Tower raised the bar, as it stands at a height of 171 metres. One of the latest additions to the Istanbul skyline is the Marmara Istanbul Hotel Tower. It stands as the 15th tallest skyscraper in the world, and is accounted for at being 188 metres high.
History of Skyscrapers in Istanbul
The history of skyscrapers in Istanbul dates back to 1909 when the first tall tower, the Atatürk Tower, was built. This remarkable building stands at 67 metres (220ft), and was the tallest structure in Istanbul for a century. The iconic structure, which still stands tall today, was designed to commemorate the founding of the Republic of Turkey.
In the 1960s, the twin towers of the Kelebek Hotel were constructed, which stand at 72 metres (236 ft). They were the first large-scale structures built in the 1960s and 1970s, and were the first buildings on the Golden Horn with a penthouse terrace.
In the late 2000s, the skyline of Istanbul was changed forever with the construction of several skyscrapers, like the Sapphire Tower, Istanbul Sapphire and the Atakoy Tower. These structures represent the ever-changing face of a dynamic city, as Istanbul eagerly looks forward to its future.
Role of the Real Estate Market
As in any major city, the real estate market plays a major role in Istanbul’s ever-changing skyline. The Turkish government provides benefits to developers who build skyscrapers, incentivizing them to produce quality structures with modern designs. This has contributed to the proliferation of skyscrapers in the city, with developers taking advantage of the positive business climate to invest in the construction of new structures. Local and foreign investors are keen to invest in real estate in Istanbul, as the demand for residential and office space is rising as the city continues to grow.
Architectural Aspects of Istanbul’s Skyscrapers
Istanbul’s skyscrapers reflect the city’s ever-changing face, as new buildings continue to be constructed to serve the growing population of the city. The architectural styles vary from the modern and contemporary, to classic and traditional. The Marmara Tower is a modern example of a skyscraper, while the Atatürk Tower stands strong, reflecting its classical and traditional style.
The majority of the structures are built with reinforced concrete, with steel as the main material used with modern engineering techniques. The glass used in many of the skyscrapers gives a unique, modern look to the Istanbul skyline. Some of the more modern buildings are also built with sustainable materials, such as locally sourced stone, in order to meet modern environmental standards.
Safety and Environmental Factors of Skyscrapers in Istanbul
Istanbul’s skyscrapers come with a unique set of safety demands and environmental considerations. As a densely populated city, the safety of the structures is paramount, and the majority of the skyscrapers comply with all local safety measures and regulations. The skyscrapers are also built in accordance with the environmental laws and regulations of the country, in order to reduce any negative impact on the environment and the city.
The Istanbul government is constantly monitoring the skyline, as these tall structures require constant care and maintenance in order to remain safe and secure. The government is also committed to reducing the negative impact of these tall buildings on the environment, and has implemented laws to reduce the amount of energy consumed by these skyscrapers. As Istanbul continues to develop, the government looks forward to reducing the energy consumed by these tall structures.
Manufacturing Process of Skyscrapers
The construction of skyscrapers in Istanbul is a complex process with many steps and stages. It takes roughly two to three years for one of these tall structures to be completed. Before the building can be constructed, the engineering plans and design must be approved by the authorities, after which the ground must be excavated and preparations can begin.
Once all the necessary preparations are completed, the foundations of the building are poured, and then the steel frame is put in place. The steel frame will determine how strong the building is and how tall it can stand. Finally, the exterior and interior of the building is completed, and the entire process is finished.
Contribution of Skyscrapers to the Economy
The skyscrapers of Istanbul contribute significantly to the economy of the city. The real estate sector in Turkey is booming, and these structures are a major part of the city’s economy. They provide jobs in the construction sector, the engineering sector, and in the service and hospitality industry. The development of the skyscrapers also helps to attract foreign investors, who are keen to invest in Istanbul due to its growing economy.
The Turkish government has also provided economic incentives for developers to construct tall structures of modern designs, further contributing to the growth of the real estate sector. The construction of skyscrapers has also opened up more jobs in the engineering and design fields, creating more job opportunities in the city.
Opinions of Istanbul Residents on Skyscrapers
The majority of the residents of Istanbul are positive about the skyscrapers in their city. Most feel that the skyscrapers add city character and are a sign of progress. The design of many of the modern buildings has been praised by both locals and foreign visitors alike.
Nevertheless, there are some citizens who view the rapid development of the city with hesitance, opting for a more traditional way of life. Some argue that the buildings are too tall and modern, overpowering the culture of the city. However, this is a minority opinion, and the majority of the people of Istanbul continue to be supportive of the modern-day development of their city.
Future of Skyscrapers in Istanbul
Istanbul is a rapidly growing city, and it is likely that there will be many new skyscrapers in the near future. The dynamic city is ever-expanding, and new projects are underway. The Turkish government has provided incentives to developers to construct tall structures, and there are already plans in place for future constructions.
As the city continues to flourish, the skyline of Istanbul will no doubt transform forever. The city of Istanbul looks forward to a brighter future, with more modern structures that will continue to shape its skyline for generations to come.
