Destination summer: Soho House Istanbul

To wrap up our summer campaign, let us take you to one of the most exciting cities: the ancient and vibrant metropolis of Istanbul. For the past decade, it’s been the most-loved destination for global creatives bringing home stories of unforgettable parties, rooftop sunsets, intense new flavours, and a welcoming community. 

Lying across the Bosphorus Strait, the city reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here: Roman, Byzantine, and Latin. But Istanbul’s glorious heritage is not all it has to offer: its youthful energy and bourgeoning creative scene are really the main attractions. There’s no better place to discover both while staying in the comfort of Soho House – so many things that shape the city’s cultural life happen right here. House-hosted DJ sets and the Apheleia terrace, for instance, have been very much the talk of the town among locals and visitors alike. 

The architecture, interiors and art 

Soho House Istanbul is located in Palazzo Corpi in the Beyoğlu district. The building was commissioned by Ignazio Corpi, a powerful Genoese shipbuilder, in 1873 – he hired Italian architect Giacomo Leoni to create a palatial residence bearing his family’s name. Leoni set about importing marble from Carrara for the flooring and facings, and Piemonte rosewood for the doors and window frames. Corpi died in 1882 and didn’t get to enjoy the completed building, which took nine years to complete. In the 20th century, the Palazzo served as the US embassy and residence. 

In 2014, we set out to restore the building to its former glory – keeping most of the original features, including the 18th century frescos, and the vintage furniture enhances the sense of historical authenticity. Our art collection has more than 500 pieces displayed throughout the House, including works by Andrew Schoultz, Arslan Sukan, and Kerim Yetkin.

The House encompasses 87 bedrooms, a gym, club restaurant, Apheleia terrace restaurant, The Allis and Cecconi’s, plus a Cowshed spa open to members and non-members. The terrace dining under the canopy of trees in the sunlight is always a special treat. 

The bedrooms

The bedrooms combine traditional influences of local craft and design history with a contemporary sense of comfort. Super king-size beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, freestanding bathtubs and soft textiles in muted colours create the ideal sanctuary. The Large Mezzanine room comes with extra-high ceilings, and The Apartment offers a welcoming seating area with a round table and grand piano.

The food and drink

The House Kitchen serves international dishes with local influences – plus all the much-loved House signatures. Apheleia is a much more flavour-bending affair: Mykonos native chef, Athinagoras Kostakis, has curated a simple yet sophisticated menu with a Mexican twist – ideal for sharing. Black Risotto is the most popular highlight, alongside Orange Syrup Cake created with a traditional Greek recipe and combined with a House-made citrus sorbet. 

Soho Health Club

Soho Health Club is perfect for a good training session – equipped with a boxing ring and a set of refined Technogym machines, as well as offering classes and personal trainers. Not into serious gains? The calm, stylish space is great if you’re looking to recentre and have a break from the city’s sights – with an obligatory visit to the steam room, sauna, and Cowshed spa. 

To book a bedroom at Soho House Istanbul, click here.