# Renovation Guide for Historic Buildings in Beşiktaş: Modernization in Etiler and Bebek
Beşiktaş, one of Istanbul's most established districts, hosts both historic structures and modern residential projects. Especially in prestigious neighborhoods like Etiler and Bebek, apartments from the 1970s-1980s pose an important question to their owners: Should renovation be done by preserving the historic texture, or by completely modernizing? In this guide, we address the technical details to consider in renovations of old buildings in Beşiktaş, plumbing renewal challenges, and high-ceiling decoration tips.
Restoration or Renovation? How to Determine the Right Approach?
When renovating old buildings in the Beşiktaş region, we need to adopt a balanced approach between restoration and modernization. Restoration is the process of strengthening and renewing while preserving the structure's original character. Modernization, on the other hand, aims to adapt the existing structure to contemporary living standards.
Historic Texture Analysis: The First Step
Before renovating old apartments in Etiler and Bebek, we analyze the building's historic value and architectural features. In apartments from the Art Deco era, details such as ceiling decorations, door handles, and original parquet floors should be preserved.
In every project, we conduct a detailed inspection to identify elements that need to be preserved. During this inspection, we identify parts that require building management permission. In historic buildings in the Beşiktaş region, municipal approvals and preservation board permits may be required.
Plumbing Renewal in Old Buildings: The Most Critical Stage
In buildings from the 1970s-1980s in Etiler and Bebek, plumbing infrastructure is one of the biggest problems. Buildings constructed in this period used galvanized steel pipes or zinc pipes instead of copper plumbing.
Drainage Quality and Water Plumbing Renewal
Analysis of Existing Plumbing
Before renovation, we examine the existing plumbing system in detail. Zinc pipes corrode after 40-50 years and reduce water quality. Especially in old buildings in the Etiler region, these pipes must be renewed.
Modern Plumbing Materials
In Beşiktaş old building renovations, we use PPRC (polypropylene random copolymer) or copper pipes in accordance with today's standards. PPRC pipes are corrosion-resistant, easy to install, and long-lasting. Copper pipes are more expensive but the most durable option.
Plumbing Renewal Process
During plumbing renewal, we follow these steps:
1. Detection of Existing Plumbing: Before opening walls, plumbing routes are detected using thermal cameras.
2. Debris Removal: Old plumbing is carefully removed and debris is cleared.
3. New Plumbing Installation: PPRC or copper pipes are installed in accordance with TS EN standards.
4. Pressure Test: After installation, the system is tested at 8 bar pressure.
Beşiktaş old building plumbing renewal costs range from 35,000 - 55,000 TL per apartment. This cost varies according to plumbing complexity and apartment size.
Electrical Installation: Three-Phase System and Grounded Outlets
Electrical installations in old buildings cannot meet today's needs. There is insufficient capacity for air conditioning, dishwashers, dryers, and many electronic devices.
Electrical Panel Renewal
In historic apartments in Bebek, modern circuit breakers and residual current device (RCD) should be used instead of old-type fuses. The electrical panel should have sufficient capacity for a 3-phase system.
Grounded Outlets and Safety
In old buildings, grounded outlet systems are usually missing. We make all outlets grounded and add RCDs where necessary. Especially in humid areas like kitchens and bathrooms, we use outlets with IP65 protection class.
Beşiktaş old building electrical installation renewal costs range from 20,000 - 40,000 TL per apartment.
High Ceiling Decoration: Modern Solutions While Preserving Historic Character
One of the most attractive features of old apartments in Etiler and Bebek is their high ceilings. Ceilings typically 3.20 - 3.50 meters create a spacious feeling. However, these high ceilings require special approaches in terms of decoration.
Restoration of Ceiling Decorations
In apartments from the Art Deco era in Bebek, ceiling decorations (plaster work) can be restored close to their original state. During restoration, we use these techniques:
1. Cleaning of Ceiling Decorations
Dirt accumulated over years and yellowed paint layers are cleaned with special chemicals. This process must be done very carefully because the original plaster structure can be damaged.
2. Completion of Missing Parts
Missing parts of ceiling decorations are completed with special plaster molds. For this process, molds of existing decorations are first taken and missing parts are cast.
3. Painting and Finishing
Restored ceiling decorations are painted in tones close to their original color. Matte paints are particularly preferred because glossy paints can cause decoration details to be lost.
Modern Lighting Systems
When integrating modern lighting systems in high ceilings, it is important to preserve the historic character. We apply these solutions:
1. Hidden LED Strip Lighting
We place hidden LED strip lighting at ceiling and wall junctions. These systems create a spacious atmosphere by providing indirect lighting.
2. Wall Lamps and Chandeliers
In high ceilings, wall lamps and chandeliers should be positioned correctly. The height of the chandelier from the floor should be between 2.10 - 2.30 meters.
3. Dimmer Systems
We use dimmer systems for lighting control. These systems allow adjusting lighting levels according to different scenarios.
Sound Insulation: Essential for Quality of Life in a Busy Area
Beşiktaş is one of Istanbul's busiest districts. Especially in Etiler and Bebek, street noise and neighbor noise can reduce quality of life. Insufficient insulation in old buildings further increases this problem.Insulation Materials Used in Wall Insulation
In old building renovations, we use these materials for sound insulation:
1. Mineral Wool (Stone Wool)
We place 5 cm thick mineral wool panels in wall cavities. Mineral wool provides both sound and thermal insulation.
2. Acoustic Plaster
We apply special acoustic plaster to wall surfaces. This plaster reduces noise by absorbing sound vibrations.
3. Double Wall System
We apply a double wall system, especially on neighbor walls. A 5-10 cm gap is left between two walls, and the interior is filled with mineral wool.
Window Replacement: PVC or Aluminum?
In old buildings, single-glazed and insufficiently insulated windows are inadequate in terms of both sound and thermal insulation.
PVC Window Selection
PVC windows demonstrate superior performance in terms of thermal insulation. We use 5+16+5 mm (double-glazed) or 4+12+4+12+4 mm (triple-glazed) systems. Beşiktaş old building window replacement costs 3,500 - 6,000 TL per window.
Aluminum Window Selection
Aluminum windows offer a more modern appearance but thermal insulation is lower than PVC. Aluminum windows with thermal break systems provide better thermal insulation.
Modernization While Preserving Historic Texture: Parquet Restoration
In old apartments in Bebek and Etiler, original parquet floors are usually found. These parquets can be reused by restoring them or replaced with modern parquet systems.
Original Parquet Restoration
Original parquets can be restored with special techniques:
1. Sanding and Varnishing
Old parquets are sanded with special sanding machines and return to their original colors. Then, matte or glossy varnish is applied.
2. Completion of Missing Parts
Missing parts of parquets are completed with pieces made from the same type of wood. Especially oak parquets can be easily restored.
Modern Parquet Selection
If original parquets cannot be restored, modern parquet systems are applied. Laminated parquet, engineered parquet, or solid parquet options are available. Beşiktaş old building parquet installation costs 400 - 1,200 TL per square meter.
Structural Strengthening: Critical for Earthquake Safety
After the 1999 earthquake, earthquake safety came to the fore in buildings in Turkey. Old buildings in Beşiktaş carry risk if structural strengthening has not been done.
Structural Inspection Report
Before renovation, a structural inspection report should be obtained from Beşiktaş Municipality. This report evaluates the building's earthquake risk and presents necessary strengthening recommendations.
Strengthening Methods
We apply these strengthening methods:
1. Carbon Fiber Strengthening
Columns and beams are strengthened with carbon fiber panels. This method is a fast solution that produces little debris.
2. Steel Strengthening
Columns are strengthened by wrapping with steel profiles. This method is more costly but more durable.
3. Concrete Strengthening
Columns and beams are strengthened with reinforced concrete. This method is the most costly but the most reliable solution.
Renovation Costs: 2026 Current Prices
Beşiktaş old building renovation costs vary according to the building's condition, apartment size, and selected material quality.Complete Renovation (2+1 Apartment, 90 m²)
- Restoration-Focused: 400,000 TL - 600,000 TL
- Modernization-Focused: 300,000 TL - 500,000 TL
Partial Renovations
- Plumbing Renewal (Water + Electrical): 55,000 TL - 95,000 TL
- Window Replacement (8 windows): 28,000 TL - 48,000 TL
- Parquet Installation (90 m²): 36,000 TL - 108,000 TL
- Ceiling Restoration (90 m²): 25,000 TL - 50,000 TL
- Sound Insulation (90 m²): 30,000 TL - 60,000 TL
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does old building renovation take in Beşiktaş?
Complete renovation takes an average of 10-14 weeks for a 2+1 apartment. Partial renovations (plumbing renewal or parquet installation) are completed in 4-6 weeks.
Do permits need to be obtained for historic building renovation?
In historic buildings in the Beşiktaş region, municipal approvals and preservation board permits may be required. Building management approval is also necessary.
Do I have to preserve original parquets?
Original parquets can be used by restoring them. However, preservation board permission may be required. Restoration cost may be higher than new parquet installation.
Can I stay in the apartment during plumbing renewal?
During plumbing renewal, we recommend temporary accommodation because water and electricity will be cut off. However, in partial renewals, you can continue living in one part of the apartment.
How effective is sound insulation?
Properly applied sound insulation can reduce noise levels by 60-70%. However, windows should also be replaced and neighbor walls should also be insulated.
Conclusion: Get Professional Support
Renovation in historic buildings in Beşiktaş is a comprehensive process requiring expertise. In Etiler, Bebek, Ulus, and all Beşiktaş neighborhoods, our team specialized in old building renovation offers free site visit services for structural analysis and detailed cost calculation.
Let's find the answer to the question of restoration or renovation together. We are by your side to experience modern comfort while preserving the historic texture. Call for professional transformation in Beşiktaş: 0501 022 33 75
