AND Pastel Istanbul
Green. Urban. Communal.
AND Pastel is a residential neighbourhood that transforms former industrial land into a lively piece of city. Located in Istanbul’s Kartal district, it forms an ensemble that combines urban density with high spatial quality, setting a benchmark for communal living in the metropolis. A greenspace ratio of 70% strengthens the ecological performance and climate resilience of the neighbourhood.
Transformation of a former industrial site
Four high-rise towers, three perimeter block buildings
1,200 apartments for around 3,000 residents
70% green space within the neighbourhood
Social infrastructure with health centre, indoor and outdoor pools, nursery, retail and gastronomy
The project turns a previously closed off site into a permeable, mixed-use urban quarter. One third of the site is publicly accessible, and a pedestrian passage connects the southern neighbourhoods with the metro, creating a new public square for the wider district.
The arrangement of the eight‑storey perimeter blocks creates manageable neighbourhoods with a strong identity. Three green courtyards form the heart of the development. Unusually for Istanbul, they are densely planted, enhance biodiversity and offer spaces for encounter, retreat and play.
AND Pastel functions as a microcosm of urban life. The 1,200 apartments, ranging from one room units to family homes, are flexibly organized, naturally lit and ventilated throughout. More than 70% of the units have windows facing two orientations. In the outdoor areas, differentiated, open use spaces allow for privacy and social interaction in equal measure.
The landscape design by Martha Schwartz Partners weaves the neighbourhood into its surroundings. A shallow water feature runs through the site, linking the courtyards and creating playful transitions. Paths are fluid, and the topography is modeled. Children, adults and older residents alike find amenities for movement, recreation, and social exchange.
AND Pastel demonstrates how urban density, social diversity, and ecological quality can be combined. The architecture responds to the challenges of a growing metropolis with a neighbourhood that not only provides housing but also offers new impulses for urban development.
»AND Pastel is a prototype for European influenced neighbourhoods in Istanbul and a model project for integrated planning. Its high quality of stay has already convinced further clients to take similar paths.«
Bugrahan Sirin, Partner HPP
- Project
- AND Pastel
- Location
- Istanbul
- Client
- AEH Anadolu Gayrimenkul Yatirimlari A.S.
- GFA
- 190.000 m²
- Completion
- 2018
- Uses
- Residential, health, nursery, retail, leisure
- Awards
- LEED Gold
