Galatasaray Island

Elegant shading for an extraordinary location

Set in the middle of the Bosphorus, just off Kuruçeşme, Galatasaray Island is an exclusive destination with a distinctive waterfront setting. As part of an extensive renovation lasting around two years, the island’s entire infrastructure was renewed. For the outdoor areas of the restaurant and bar, a bespoke shading solution was created that blends seamlessly with the architecture while making the outdoor spaces even more comfortable.

Ten systems, precisely tailored to their setting and use

Güzen Mimarlık planned and implemented a total of ten SunSquare systems. In the guest areas, four double-sided AX-systems, four triangular systems and one single-sided AX-system provide shade for the seating and bar areas. An additional, smaller single-sided system was installed for the internal management area.

The result demonstrates how individually designed shading systems can complement architecture without dominating it. Clean lines, high-quality execution and a layout carefully tailored to each individual area create a calm, cohesive overall appearance while providing sheltered and comfortable outdoor spaces directly by the water.

Meticulous planning for installation in just four days

One of the project’s particular challenges was the tight schedule: only four days were available to install the nine systems in the guest areas. Early and close coordination with the renovation team was therefore essential.

Once the system layout had been finalised, custom-made mounting plates were integrated into the steel structure at the precisely defined positions, and all flange connections were prepared in advance.

This allowed the waterproofing and timber decking to be completed, leaving only the designated mounting points for the supports accessible. Thanks to this meticulous preparation, the systems could be installed efficiently within the limited timeframe.

The project demonstrates the importance of close coordination between architects, structural engineers, construction trades and shading specialists in achieving a result that is both technically precise and architecturally convincing.

More comfort for special occasions

The nine publicly visible systems were already put to extensive use during the Galatasaray championship celebrations. Although the island normally operates as an exclusive members’ club, numerous guests and club representatives had the opportunity to experience the newly designed outdoor areas that day.

The response was extremely positive, with several board members expressing their appreciation for the solution and showing interest in similar systems for their own projects.

The result is an atmosphere on Galatasaray Island that is elegant, welcoming and functional in equal measure. The SunSquare systems enhance the unique character of the location without drawing attention away from it, transforming the terraces along the Bosphorus into comfortable outdoor spaces for dining, socialising and special events.