Sustainable City Guide

Postane İstanbul: Originally established as a post office building by the British in Galata in the mid-1800s, this historic structure has recently become home to impact-driven initiatives. Another reason for its place on our list is, of course, the gardens on its rooftop. A great example of urban farming, this space uses rainwater harvesting to store water for irrigation, and all waste is converted into compost. If you'd like to experience this circular system up close—or even taste the fruits and vegetables grown on Postane Teras—we highly recommend a visit.

Ek Biç Ye İç: When it comes to urban farming and ecological food, Ek Biç Ye İç is a must-mention. Coincidentally, the idea for this project sprouted about 7 years ago during the Istanbul Design Biennale. The main goal of this project, which brings together people from various disciplines, is to develop systems where humans are not simply cast in the role of consumers. What better place to convey the message that reaching green spaces is possible with a bit of knowledge and effort? To get closer to this spirit, you can participate in the gardening workshops or order organic, local produce online to enjoy its flavors.

Sanki Atölye: This interdisciplinary space combines both a kitchen and a textile workshop. Offering a wide range of products grown using seasonal and sustainable agricultural methods, you can either order them online or enjoy them right here. Sanki Tekstil, created with sustainability at its core, features locally-produced hemp kitchen towels and Sanki-branded products like cutting boards and measuring cups, all designed with eco-consciousness in mind.

Locus Solus Exhibition - Arter: Named after Raymond Roussel’s novel of the same name, this exhibition focuses on the deep interconnection between nature and culture, showing how they feed into each other. The exhibit explores the idea of "nature" through the lens of phenomena, narratives, and emotions. You can visit this thought-provoking exhibition at Arter until the end of the year. As you wander among the artworks, you’ll likely find yourself questioning the relationship between "nature," the living world, and the cycles we so often take for granted. The exhibition runs until December 31, 2022.

Müz: Müz's definition—"producing ideas and designs that bring nature into daily life"—captures the essence of this space perfectly. We believe that understanding the plants we grow in our pots, understanding their "language," and ultimately witnessing their growth is the quickest route to connecting the city and nature. Müz also shares plant care tips on its Instagram account, covering everything from plant names to pot selection, indicating their commitment to maintaining this connection sustainably. 😊

Frankeştayn Kitabevi: Located in Beyoğlu and opened last May, Frankeştayn is an independent bookstore with a strong focus on gender equality and feminism, though you can find a diverse selection of books beyond these topics. When talking about sustainability, it’s essential to discuss equality in all aspects of life, for everyone. We highly recommend visiting this space, which offers a unique perspective on sustainability and society.

Bi Nevi Deli: A different corner of the city but with the same perspective. Bi Nevi Deli, which has been offering exclusively plant-based menus since 2014, sources every product in season and from local producers, ensuring it remains entirely vegan. Their podcast series, which delves into the important matter of "the intention behind our choices and actions" — a topic we often highlight in our #VitrutaForGood content — brings their focus to a separate platform. Before visiting the restaurant, if you’d like to meet the people behind these nature-friendly menus, click here.

Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanik Bahçesi: What if we told you that you could find hundreds of plant species in the middle of Istanbul? Established in memory of Nezahat Gökyiğit, this garden holds the distinction of being the first and only botanical garden located at a highway junction in the city. In this peaceful escape, you can encounter plant species that have integrated with the city over the years, participate in workshops to connect more with nature, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a watercolor plant painting workshop by the talented Işık Güner.

Agnes Denes’ Living Pyramid Exhibition – Sakıp Sabancı Museum: The Living Pyramid sculpture by ecological art pioneer Agnes Denes has become part of the Sakıp Sabancı Museum's permanent collection. This organic masterpiece, made of around 600 plant and flower species selected in collaboration with the artist from Istanbul’s urban flora, is a must-see. Aimed at questioning our increasingly distant relationship with nature, this artwork stands in the museum’s garden as a product of collective effort. You can visit the exhibition until January 29, 2023.