Most Istanbul photos depict ancient Turkish architecture such as ornate mosques, traditional stone houses, or even mystical market streets. However, there’s also a surprising modern side to city that many people don't know about. Architect and photographer Yener Torun has been capturing the colorful urban playgrounds of Istanbul’s developing neighborhoods ever since he moved there around 18 years ago.
Minimalist structures, modernist geometry, vibrant colors, and odd architectural quirks are the main themes that run through Torun’s Instagram gallery. However, these rainbow-colored urban landscapes aren’t always easy to find. The photographer explains, “I dig every corner of the city to unearth these colorful gems…finding these places in this gray mass is quite like a treasure hunt.” He continues, “My primary motive was to document a different, less-known part of Istanbul to escape from the one dimensional and orientalist perception…I believe increasing the variety of aspects provides a better understanding of the city, both for the viewers and me.” He adds, “Even long-term residents can’t believe these pictures were taken in the city they live in.”
You can find more of Torun’s color-blocked building photos on Instagram.
Architect and photographer Yener Torun captures the colorful urban playgrounds of Istanbul’s developing neighborhoods.
Minimalist structures, modernist geometry, vibrant colors, and odd architectural quirks are the main themes that run through Torun’s Instagram gallery.
Torun’s images reveal these otherwise undiscovered districts and aim to change the orientalist perception of Istanbul’s urban landscape.
