A Tapestry of Art and History in Istanbul

Words Vidula KotianDate 05 September 2024

Nestled within Istanbul’s storied enclave of Pera, Casa Foscolo emerges as a stunning synthesis of historical grandeur and contemporary artistry.

Just like Pera, Istanbul’s vibrant second-oldest historic district, Casa Foscolo, our latest gem, mirrors a mesmerizing mix of the past and the present. Slated to open in September, the hotel flaunts a striking neoclassical façade, elegantly fused with brick and travertine marble, concealing a modern, art-inspired core. Indeed, the Vargi family has suffused the interiors with their fervent passion for art, making every corner a visual feast.

The striking neoclassical façade conceals a modern, art-inspired core.

Casa Foscolo is now the proud backdrop for many treasures from the family’s impressive collection, boasting over 200 contemporary masterpieces from local and global artists. This artistic sanctuary features an eclectic mix of drawings, paintings, photography, handmade fabric pieces, and mixed media creations, each made with different materials and textures. “Some of these pieces graced my own living space,” shares Yasemin Vargi Emirdag, an art major and aficionado. “They hold a special place in my heart, so I moved them into the hotel because it feels like home, being such a cozy boutique hotel.”

“Some of these pieces graced my own living space. They hold a special place in my heart, so I moved them into the hotel because it feels like home, being such a cozy boutique hotel.”

Yasemin Vargi Emirdag

“My favorite artwork is by the Italian artist Marco di Giovanni, a piece I’ve cherished for many years,” she continues. “It’s composed of small Moleskine notebooks arranged on a wall, each featuring intricate drawings. At first glance, it’s a mere collection, but a closer look reveals a portrait of physicist Richard Feynman. It’s a subtle yet astounding piece that captures the imagination.”

Vargi’s favorite piece by Italian artist Marco di Giovanni, composed of small Moleskine notebooks featuring intricate drawings.

The hotel is home to an eclectic mix of drawings, paintings, photography, handmade fabric pieces, and mixed-media creations.

At Casa Foscolo, the stunningly restored ceiling frescoes set the stage for a fresh artistic venture. Local muralist Hakan Ozdil has been tasked with painting the walls on each floor, creatively echoing the building's original charm with an imaginative twist—by sprinkling whimsical birds throughout his murals, which are a playful departure from the traditional frescoes.

Looking ahead, Casa Foscolo is poised to become a hub of creativity, hosting intimate workshops and exhibitions that spotlight both rising stars and established artists familiar to the family. The family’s dedication to the arts extends through their global journeys to fairs, galleries, and auctions, continuously seeking new talents and masterpieces. Get ready for an art-drenched journey in one of Istanbul’s most culturally rich and historic locales. Welcome to a truly immersive art experience.