Fairmont Quasar Istanbul, Turkey

Rising above the slopes of The Bosphorus, Fairmont Quasar Istanbul serves as a hub for the well-travelled, uniting the sophistication of modern Istanbul with the unique lineage of its location, steeped in centuries of sacred history. Fairmont Quasar Istanbul is the first hotel for Fairmont in Turkey and the fifth property of parent company AccorHotel’s luxury brand portfolio within Istanbul. Situated inside the Quasar Istanbul complex, Fairmont Quasar Istanbul occupies two 40-story towers that sit atop a four-story office podium comprised of fitness facilities and luxury retail. The towers include a Fairmont Hotel and Fairmont Residences as well as Quasar Residences and offices, managed by Fairmont. Opened March 2017, Fairmont Quasar Istanbul provides 209 guestrooms including 25 suites. A new icon for the vibrant Mecidiyeköy district, Fairmont Quasar sits at a crossroads in Istanbul – where eclectic neighborhood bazaars and colorful side streets meet modern shopping centers and commercial properties.

Set on the site of an Art Deco liquor factory, Fairmont Quasar Istanbul blends a sense of urban culture and industrial flair with the city’s storied traditions and a strong sense of place. Inspired by a rich past strongly rooted in the present, Wilson Associates‘ interior design weaves both heritage and stylish modernity; where the guest experience subliminally mirrors the ageless Turkish concept of journey and welcome. More Contract was responsible for the project’s fit-out. Further bringing together two worlds, the design narrative begins with a tale of two souls bound together through time; timeless yet modern. The hotel and serviced apartments signify two Turkish sisters—one who lived in New York City and the other in Paris. The sisters have returned to their native country with a fresh perspective resulting from their previous lifestyle, adding to the cultural fabric of Istanbul. The city straddles these two worlds providing a third component and the perfect stage for the sisters to converge and star in a performance of life, love, and expression. New York and Paris, the long-standing twin pillars of style, set the global standard for high design. Istanbul brings unique Turkish detail: references of local familiarity reflect a sense of place. Adding yet another layer, the historic liquor factory, designed by renowned architect Robert Mallet-Stevens in the 1930s, brings a sense of urban culture and industrial flair. These layers, merging to deliver one harmonious design concept, are the fundamental inspirations for Fairmont Quasar Istanbul. This is a tale of old and new souls, bound together through the ages.

Fairmont Quasar Istanbul is the first project in Turkey awarded with the pre-certification of the German sustainable building certification DGNB (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen), with a Gold (top) rating. DGNB is a German system that assesses buildings and urban districts which demonstrate an outstanding commitment to meeting sustainability objectives together with the credits for art and culture.

The project also comprised the restoration and refurbishment of the existing historic liquor factory, while the city garden was transformed into a new international cultural, art and fashion center, complete with statues and historical sycamores. Architect Robert Mallet-Stevens’ sole masterpiece built outside France, the liquor factory was rebuilt as a museum and recreation center. The state-of-the-art institution aims to inspire passion for learning and to become a powerful stimulus for the development of new ideas and relationships, promoting social progress and intellectual achievement.

From the dramatic lobby area to the multi-faceted Great Room, the Fairmont Quasar Istanbul is a timeless, modern hotel experience featuring luxurious spaces and amenities. A feature fireplace is nestled at the threshold of the Great Room reception, exuding warmth to the eclectic groups of seating, while large windows offer views of the lobby garden terrace beyond. The cocktail bar boasts blue Palissandro marble, another reference to the Bosphorus, with its flowing form and variance of color. A custom millwork whiskey cabinet adjacent to the bar features staggered pendants inspired by antique crystal whiskey decanters. Merging the modernized charm of Paris and the industrial-chic essence of New York, the Tea Parlor offers a casual and uniquely residential experience. Aromas of sweet pastries and warm bread drift from the connecting Patisserie like a welcoming invitation to sample a variety of local treats. The Fairmont Quasar Istanbul includes an atmospheric all-day-dining restaurant and a specialty restaurant with four distinct spaces that take diners on a journey through Istanbul. The stylish Willow Stream Spa is a modern interpretation of a traditional Turkish Hamman, creating a wondrous sense of serenity.

In terms of the hotel’s restaurants, merging the modernized charm of Paris and the industrial-chic essence of New York, the Tea Parlor offers a casual and uniquely residential experience. Aromas of sweet pastries and warm bread drift from the connecting Patisserie like a welcoming invitation to sample a variety of local treats. The dark wood floor is laid in a traditional herringbone pattern, setting the stage with a sense of warmth and comfort which embodies the whole room. The distinctive, geometric ceiling installation is the primary focus with its layered satin metal grid suspended above the space, while soft, warm light is cast from the adjacent coves. A Turkish-inspired rug anchors the furniture at the center of the room while hints of local pattern and texture generate an inviting sense of place. The space is highlighted with antique mirrors and references of Art Deco wall details, which contrast against the industrial, clean lines of the connecting Patisserie. The design is finished with flashes of sparkling light emitted from the pendants and wall sconces coupled with touches of local decorations such as books and artifacts to complete the bookshelves.

Upon departing the Tea Parlor, a rustic oak staircase descends to the All-Day Dining area. This atmospheric restaurant captures the legacy of the old liquor factory through echoes of the past interpreted in a modern way. The dark metal framework and back-lit glass paneling of the angular ceiling feature is juxtaposed by the warm wood floors accented with original antique Turkish rugs. The industrial-modern architecture is paired with eclectic furniture elements, which sets the stage for a unique dining experience. Flexible arrangements of dining tables and leather-upholstered dark walnut chairs, create a casual and inviting mood. The industrial-inspired pendants cast a friendly ambiance throughout the space. Graphic text inscribed on the wood of the central columns serves as an homage to the original liquor factory and its historic local influence. Adjacent to the dining area, guests can experience a variety of food options at each station. Everything from Eastern cuisine to simple pastries and made-to-order dishes are available at the marble-clad counters. The soft clamor of pots and pans can be heard in conjunction with friendly conversations of people enjoying the cuisine, generating a lively atmosphere in the All-Day Dining area.