Retro Palais Hobbyhus by Yasmin Aryas is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award i Sølv in Indretning og Udstillingsdesign Competition Category.

SølvIndretning· 2025

Retro Palais Hobbyhus

by Yasmin Aryas

Client: Yasmin Aryas Interiors

A' Design Award i Sølv Winner in Indretning Category

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Verified Award Winner
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Colors

The Design

About Retro Palais Hobbyhus

Forankret i en historisk bygning i Istanbul henter designet inspiration fra den markante tilstedeværelse af et magnolietræ i centrum. Det forener traditionelle arkitektoniske former med moderne linjer og skaber en raffineret og nostalgisk atmosfære. En naturlig palet af valnød, eg, sort og hvidt forankrer rummet, mens grøn, bordeaux og creme tilføjer en retrovarme. Med materialer som træ, marmor og jern opstår en rolig, afbalanceret æstetik. Høje lofter og kontekstuel følsomhed hjælper projektet med sømløst at forbinde fortid og nutid.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award i Sølv

Retro Palais Hobbyhus er vinder af A' Design Award i Sølv, en usædvanligt prestigefyldt anerkendelse, der tildeles designs i topklasse, som er pragtfulde og imponerende. Sølvvinderne er enormt geniale og overordentlig kreative værker, der illustrerer deres designeres fremragende ekspertise, talent og skarpsindighed. Retro Palais Hobbyhus forventes at være et vidunderligt udstillingsværk, der er bemærkelsesværdigt professionelt og dybt innovativt. Dette design, der har vundet A' Design Award i Sølv, er en højst bemærkelsesværdig, beundret opfindelse, som gavner og flytter grænserne for kunst, videnskab, design og teknologi. Retro Palais Hobbyhus er en skabelse, som mange misunder, og som vækker begær, bringer positive følelser og antænder forundring og undren.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: This design represents a magnificent connection between the past and the present, creating a spiritual atmosphere within a historical building located in the heart of old Istanbul. Between 1890 and 1960, this prestigious and valuable neighborhood was home to significant landmarks, including embassies, the Venetian Palace, and the French Palace. Today, it continues to house a consulate general. Originally built as an Italian hotel, this building has been meticulously renovated and transformed into a contemporary residence, preserving its rich history while embracing modern living.
Dimensions & Packaging: Situated at the corner junction of two distinct buildings, the house spans an area of 250 square meter. Being a historical building, the ceiling heights vary between 3.5m and 3m, which enhances the sense of depth within the space.
Tags: Hobby house, Retro details, Eclectic decoration, Romantic atmosphere, Modern lines, Functional living space
Production Technology: The design of the house emphasizes natural, clean lines, with timeless colors such as walnut, oak, white, and black forming the main palette. To evoke a retro atmosphere, accents of green, burgundy, cream tones, and cubic patterns were incorporated into the accessories, textiles, and wallpapers. The blend of materials like wood, lacquer, marble, and iron creates a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic. To bring natural light into the house, glass partitions were used in certain areas. In the kitchen, which is not very large, white cabinets were chosen to enhance the sense of space and brightness. To complement the black-framed doors and black marble borders on the floor, a black countertop was selected. The architecture of the master bedroom on the upper floor promotes tranquility with light earth tones, white lacquer, and oak as the dominant materials, while colorful cushions infuse the room with energy. The master bathroom, with its breathtaking view of the magnolia tree seen from all the windows, integrates the beauty of nature with a romantic and organic design, using a soothing palette of green and beige tones.
Design Challenge: As the house is a historical building, obtaining permits for the project took a considerable amount of time. During the implementation phase, the pandemic caused frequent interruptions, resulting in delays to the project timeline. However, thanks to its prime location and courtyard, the house possessed a unique charm that evoked the feeling of being in Italy. By preserving this characteristic feature, an effort was made to blend the old with the modern.
Research: This qualitative research explored how a historical building can meet modern living needs while preserving spatial identity. Using plan analysis, material selection, and user interviews, it found that blending historical texture with modern lines creates spaces that are both functionally efficient and emotionally engaging.
Inspiration: The primary inspiration for this project stems from the magnificent courtyard at the heart of the building, which evokes the timeless charm of Italy. The focal point of this serene space is a grand magnolia tree, its presence deeply influencing the design. The tree's elegance and enduring beauty became the cornerstone around which the entire concept was crafted.

This project involved the creative fusion of two separate stages, seamlessly blending the spirit of the past with contemporary, modern design elements. The aim of the project was to maintain the historical essence while introducing the clean lines, open spaces, and innovative features that define modern living. By drawing from traditional architectural forms and combining them with today’s design trends, the project encapsulates a harmonious balance of nostalgia and forward-thinking style.

The courtyard and the magnolia tree serve not only as visual anchors but as a source of tranquility and inspiration, enriching the space with natural beauty and timeless appeal. The design is meant to create an atmosphere that transports its occupants to a place of relaxation and connection to nature, while still embracing the comforts and sophistication of modern life.
Project Duration: The project, located in the Tomtom neighborhood of Beyoglu, Istanbul, was initiated in 2020 and completed in 2024.
Operation Flow: Designed with careful consideration of ceiling heights and location, this home seamlessly blends modern and retro elements in a harmonious eclectic style. From the very entrance, the homeowners’ art collection reflecting their passion for various artistic disciplines defines the character of the space. During the design process, the placement of these pieces was meticulously planned, and the surrounding materials and colors were carefully chosen to enhance their presence. One of the most captivating features of the house is the courtyard, where a magnificent magnolia tree and a lush garden greet you as you step out from the living area. The historic and romantic ambiance of this space is balanced with modern lines, warm walnut-paneled walls, retro hues, and minimalist design elements, creating a sophisticated and timeless living environment.
Team Members: Yasmin Aryas