Zeyrek Çinili Hamam
The Zeyrek Çinili Hamam in Istanbul, a 16th-century bathhouse designed by the legendary Ottoman architect Sinan, has been meticulously restored and transformed into an interactive exhibition space. This project reimagines the historical structure not merely as a preserved monument but as an interactive cultural experience, blending heritage conservation, contemporary exhibition design, and experiential storytelling.
After a 13-year restoration, the hamam now serves a dual purpose: it operates both as a traditional bathing house and as an exhibition space that educates visitors about the architectural, cultural, and social history of Ottoman bathhouses. The design solution was developed with the aim of making history tangible – not only through artifacts and text but through multisensory engagement that brings the past to life in innovative ways.
The Challenge
One of the main challenges was the integration of exhibition elements into a historic structure without overshadowing or altering its authentic character. The bathhouse’s original Iznik tiles had been largely lost, leaving behind only fragments. Another challenge was balancing the operational function of the hamam as a bathhouse with its new role as a museum, ensuring a seamless visitor experience across both.
Project Vision
The project aimed to preserve and showcase the architectural and cultural significance of the Hamam. Enhance the visitor experience through a well-integrated, immersive exhibition design. Bridge historical authenticity with modern interpretation, using technology and scenography to reimagine lost elements. Engage local and international audiences by making the historical narratives accessible, informative, and interactive.
View of Healing Ruins at Zeyrek Çinili Hamam
Giovanni Emilio Galanello
Well Courtyard
Giovanni Emilio Galanello
Design + Execution
The exhibition was designed as an experiential journey, structured around four thematic zones that unfold within the architectural space:
The Story of Hamam – Located in the foyer, this section introduces the historical and architectural context of the bathhouse, the challenges of its restoration, and its cultural significance. Archival materials, projections, and soundscapes create a compelling narrative.
Journey of Water, Smoke, and Steam – In the Well Courtyard, visitors engage with the intricate water systems that powered the hamam, visualized through lighting installations and interactive media. A sculptural light display marks the location of the former water wheel, allowing visitors to trace the movement of water through the space.
The Tiles Gallery – The most visually striking exhibition space, where the recovered Iznik tile fragments are displayed. Projection mapping technology digitally reconstructs missing patterns, “healing” the broken designs and offering a glimpse of the hamam’s original grandeur. This fusion of authentic artifacts and digital storytelling ensures that lost history becomes visible again.
The Bathing Culture Gallery
Giovanni Emilio Galanello
View from the roof
Giovanni Emilio Galanello
The Bathing Culture Gallery – This area brings to life the social rituals of the hamam. A striking scenographic installation features 70 suspended traditional wooden bathing clogs, arranged in an undulating pattern that mimics the movement of steam. Illustrated narratives explore the people of the hamam, revealing how these spaces were integral to Ottoman daily life.
Materiality and Integration: The exhibition design uses a minimalist aesthetic, incorporating dark powder-coated steel, corten steel, and Marmara marble to subtly contrast yet harmonize with the hamam’s original surfaces. The lighting strategy enhances the architectural features while creating atmospheric effects, such as water reflections in former bathing areas, bringing the space’s function back to life.
Story of Hamam
Giovanni Emilio Galanello
The Tiles Gallery
Giovanni Emilio Galanello
The Tilles Gallery – Media Installation
Giovanni Emilio Galanello
Project Details
Design Team
ATELIER BRÜCKNER
Photo Credits
Giovanni Emilio Galanello
Open Date
September 2023