Dolmabahçe Palace Grand Ceremonial Hall and Blue Hall

Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most significant landmarks on the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Built in the mid-19th century during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid, the palace reflects the Ottoman Empire’s modernization process and its architectural transformation under Western influence. Combining Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical elements with traditional Ottoman design, the palace holds great historical and cultural importance as both an administrative and ceremonial center during the empire’s final period.

Occupying a significant place within the historical continuity of Dolmabahçe Palace, the Grand Ceremonial Hall and the Blue Hall are being re-examined through comprehensive documentation within the scope of this project. The work aims to preserve and convey the original architectural values of the building to future generations and includes the preparation of the survey, restitution, and restoration projects.

The project encompasses a comprehensive documentation and conservation process for the Grand Ceremonial Hall and Blue Hall of Dolmabahçe Palace. The work involves advanced documentation methods, including laser scanning and photogrammetric measurements, the creation of a three-dimensional digital twin of the building, and the preparation of corresponding two-dimensional survey drawings. Material and deterioration analyses, stratigraphic scraping studies, material testing, structural assessments, as well as historical, archival, and art-historical research, constitute key components of the process. All gathered data form the foundation for restitution drawings and the development of a holistic conservation strategy and restoration projects for the structure. 

The project reinterprets the architectural heritage of Dolmabahçe Palace through a contemporary conservation approach.