Retro Palais 興趣之居 by Yasmin Aryas is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award 銀獎 in 室內空間及展覽設計 Competition Category.

銀室內· 2025

Retro Palais 興趣之居

by Yasmin Aryas

Client: Yasmin Aryas Interiors

A' Design Award 銀獎 Winner in 室內 Category

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Colors

The Design

About Retro Palais 興趣之居

植根於伊斯坦堡一座歷史建築，此設計從其中心一棵雄偉的木蘭樹汲取靈感。設計融合傳統建築形式與現代線條，營造出精緻而懷舊的氛圍。以胡桃木、橡木、黑色和白色的自然色調為空間定調，而綠色、酒紅和奶油色則增添復古溫暖感。運用木材、大理石和鐵等物料，呈現出寧靜、平衡的美學。挑高天花板及對環境脈絡的敏銳觸覺，助此項目將過去與現在無縫連結。

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award 銀獎

Retro Palais 興趣之居是 A' Design Award 銀獎得主，這是授予頂級、華美而令人印象深刻的設計的極為崇高的認可。銀獎得主是極其卓越、極具創造力的作品，展現出其設計師傑出的專業技能、才華與敏銳。預計Retro Palais 興趣之居將成為一件出色的典範之作，兼具非凡的專業性與深刻的創新性。這件贏得 A' Design Award 銀獎的設計是一項備受矚目、令人欽佩的發明，造福並拓展藝術、科學、設計和技術的界限。Retro Palais 興趣之居是一件令人羨慕的創作，它喚起渴望，帶來積極的情感，並激發驚嘆與讚嘆。

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