There is something about that one of a kind feeling when gazing out onto the glorious Bosphorous in Turkey that is indescribable to put into words. Now take that imaginary ambience add the essence of a renovated 100 year old building into an exclusive boutique hotel with sexy/mod interiors and you have what we would call ‘design with benefits’.

This description applies to none other than the Karaköy Rooms designed by the newly successful architecture practice RunArchitects. Established in 2010, they have certainly made their mark with this very boutique creation. Located in Galata Sarap, this 9 room hotel delight has certainly grabbed our attention. Disregarding for a mere second the glorious views to all that is the beauty of Istanbul, you can’t help but notice the unique approach put forward by the designers in paying tribute to the building’s history. Starting with the corridors, the black and white pallet that is used makes you think of elegance and sex appeal. While walking on the geometric motif floor you instantly feel a sense of excitement about what is yet to come. One of the strongest details here are the classic black radiators emphasizing   the old world while exposing the copper piping which is interpreted in a way that is by no means old or unpleasant to the eye. This is the art of creating a sense of simple modernity, which is the prime connection to all the bedrooms that lie within.

The open sense of space to all private quarters is enhanced with the natural stark white pallet throughout the paneling and walls. The wood decorative detailing is clean cut, symmetrical, linear and present in an ever repetitive form throughout the interiors. The glorious days are referenced albeit discretely;  a discretion that is felt with the grandness of the generosity of space. There is a consistent design language throughout made evident through the various details through patterned floors and bathroom wall tiles, the retention of white throughout, the paneling on all that is apparent and our personal favorite, the exposed copper piping. This detail excites you so much that you just want to keep opening doors so that you can keep following that complete copper journey. We can’t think of a better or more respectful interpretation, to indicate the sensitivity of the history that this building has endured. This detail excites us historically and sexually. It is the best of both worlds. 

Another feature that has us on our knees is the high dark ceilings, making you feel like a 60’s fashion icon walking outside to the Juliette balcony and reaching nirvana. As far as these 9 rooms and their surroundings are concerned, we have definitely taken notice and are more exposed then ever before.