Soho House Istanbul

The fact that Soho House Istanbul is set in a palazzo built by a 19th-century Genoese merchant is a reminder that this city was, for centuries, a byword for cosmopolitanism and international commerce. Viewed from that angle it’s a sensible next step for the Soho House franchise, born in London but now global. The location is spectacular, right in the heart of the ancient district of Beyoğlu. It’s no time machine, though — the Soho House experience, as ever, is a thoroughly modern one.

Aesthetically, it’s something of a departure for the brand, but only because it’s tailored to a city with a strong visual identity; conceptually, it’s the same Soho House, a members’ club aimed at a hip clientele of well-heeled creative types, with a side gig as a luxury boutique hotel for non-members — or, more precisely, for temporary members, as an overnight stay gets you in the club for the duration.

The bedrooms are as stylish and luxurious as you expect from Soho House, and come in sizes ranging from Tiny — still large enough to fit a super king bed — to the Apartment, with space for a jacuzzi and a piano. The Soho Health Club gym with its Cowshed spa is a typically lavish affair, rivaling many a stand-alone athletic club. And the versatile social spaces are where the magic really happens — the club menu is served all throughout the house, Apheleia combines Greek and Mexican flavors, and the glamorous rooftop terrace offers a panoramic view of this scenic city.