Bilsar Building

Category: Cultural / Commercial
Type: Administration / Cultural Center / Store
Location: Evliya Çelebi, Meşrutiyet Ave. Beyoğlu
Date: 1900 / 2004
Period: Ottoman Empire / Republic of Türkiye
Designer: Unknown / Han Tümertekin
Photos: Tümertekin Architects / Bilsar

Located on Mesrutiyet Avenue in the historic Beyoglu district of Istanbul, the Bilsar Building is a significant example of late nineteenth-century residential architecture that has been seamlessly adapted for modern use. Originally constructed during the turn of the century in the Art Nouveau style, the building features an ornate stone facade characteristic of the European architectural influence prevalent in the city during that period. In 2003, the structure underwent a prestigious restoration by the renowned Turkish architect Han Tümertekin, who transformed the interior into a minimalist and functional space while carefully preserving its historical exterior integrity. Today, the building serves as a bridge between Istanbul’s rich heritage and contemporary culture, housing the headquarters of Bilsar along with Bilsart, a specialized gallery dedicated to video art.

View of a street featuring a row of colorful buildings, including a pink building, a white building with decorative architecture, and other neighboring structures. People are seen walking along the street below.
Aerial view of a city with mixed architecture, including traditional and modern buildings, red rooftops, and a waterfront featuring boats and a bridge.
Exterior view of a contemporary building with a white facade, intricate architectural details, and glass entrance, flanked by a pink building and a beige structure.
Building exterior illuminated at dusk, featuring large windows and a grand entrance, with an escalator leading to a lower level.
Entrance of a building featuring an ornate door and stairs leading inside, illuminated at night.
Front entrance of a modern building featuring decorative architectural details, with signage for 'Bil's' and 'Bilsart' alongside a serving area.
Modern office interior featuring a reception area with a sleek white counter and frosted glass partitions separating meeting spaces.
Modern indoor space featuring large windows, minimalist furniture, and an open layout with a sleek design.
Interior view of a clean and organized room with white garments hanging on racks and folded on shelves, featuring minimalist design and soft blue lighting.
Interior view of a modern space featuring a transparent partition with clothing displays and a table, illuminated by soft blue lighting.
Interior view of a modern space featuring a sheer partition with hanging clothing, a minimalist black sofa, and a white coffee table.
Entrance of a modern building with an artistic door and staircase, featuring the sign 'BİLSARBİNASI'.

Related

Scroll to Top

Discover more from Istanbul Architecture

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading