A towering icon for Istanbul's citizens and visitors
Color Kinetics' architectural LED lighting illuminated the top of the Galata Tower designed by Nergiz Arifoğlu Lightstyle lighting designers
Istanbul, Turkey — Signify announced the illumination of the top from the iconic Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey with architectural LED lighting.
The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's most well-known landmarks and is popular among its citizens and tourists because of its commanding view over the city and its place in history. Recently, the top of the famous tower was transformed by Color Kinetics lighting.
Lighting designer Nergiz Arifoğlu of Lightstyle aimed to create an impressive lighting design emphasizing the architectural features in the heart of Istanbul's cultural and artistic Beyoğlu district. The new colorful LED lighting also enables the tower to project itself as an urban icon of Istanbul's night skyline, further enhancing the image of the city.
Standing strong for over 1,500 years
The nine-story Galata Tower is 66.9 meters high and was originally built as a lighthouse by the Byzantines in the fifth century. It was destroyed in 1204, rebuilt by the Genoese in the 13th century and later modified during the Ottoman empire. Over the years, the tower has been restored and after more than 15 centuries it is still stands strong. Keeping in mind the importance of the tower's role in the city, the renovation of the lighting was undertaken without affecting the accessibility to public areas inside and around the tower.
"We at Signify are quite delighted to be involved in renewing the lighting of such an iconic building of Istanbul. The Galata Tower has an enduring social texture reflecting Istanbul's identity as the cradle of civilizations. We are proud to bring the magic of the tower to life at night with 21st century lighting that highlights the architectural features of the tower and at the same time is cost effective and energy efficient," says Eran Görgen, General Manager of Signify Turkey.
Istanbul's skyline
The lighting was designed to support the existing function of the building while respecting its urban presence and avoid any risk of damaging the historical structure. The upper section and the spire are equipped with Color Kinetics Powercore luminaires which present the opportunity to apply millions of colors and stunning light effects. The designers created a lighting design that suits and respects both the tower and Istanbul's night skyline, and is a source of pride for its citizens.