ROCKIN' ISTANBUL'S ROBUST RENAISSANCE
Rami Library nominated for Aga Khan Architecture Honor
Step aside, Paris and Rome, Istanbul's latest architectural sensation, the Rami Library, is buckin' its way onto the global art scene! This historic site is now one of the finalists for the 2025 Aga Khan Architecture Trophy. No biggie, right?
Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy proudly spilled the beans on social media, braggin' that the Rami Library, painstakinly restored by his crew, is among the finalists for the 16th cycle of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Ersoy boasted, "The 18th-century Rami Barracks, transformed into a cutting-edge knowledge hub, not only earns international recognition but also embodies Türkiye's cultural vision. Being included in this prestigious shortlist is a point of pride!"
Located in the midst of Istanbul, the Rami Library is now the city's largest library. Architect Han Tümertekin masterminded the project, employing a minimal intervention approach to preserve the Barracks' historical texture while catering to contemporary needs.
This ain't just about architectural flair; it's about integration, innovation, and cultural sustainability. According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the project has emerged as a symbol of architectural brilliance and cultural endurance.
The Aga Khan Award for Architecture, founded by the late Prince Karim Aga Khan in 1977, recognizes projects that significantly address the physical, social, economic, and cultural needs of Muslim communities. With 19 shortlisted projects in 15 countries, the 2025 cycle celebrates not only technical excellence but also local resource usage, community engagement, and cultural sensitivity.
Besides the Rami Library, the finalists include:
- Khudi Bari, Bangladesh: A community-focused project providing sustainable housing solutions
- Shamalat Cultural Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Reflecting modern trends while respecting cultural heritage
- West Wusutu Village Community Center, Hohhot (Inner Mongolia), China: An architecture that harmonizes with local environments
- Revitalization of Historic Esna, Egypt: Preserving historical sites to address community needs
- Morocco Pavilion at Expo Dubai 2020: Showcasing innovative design and cultural exchange
This diverse lineup illustrates the spirit of architectural diversity, community connection, and cultural preservation championed by the Aga Khan Award[4][5][6]. Stay tuned for the winners announced this summer!
In the heart of Istanbul, the Rami Library, a historical site transformed into a contemporary knowledge hub, has not only earned international recognition but also reflects Turkey's cultural vision. Meanwhile, the home-and-garden project, Khudi Bari in Bangladesh, provides sustainable housing solutions, embodies the community-focused essence within this year's Aga Khan Award for Architecture finalists, which also includes lifestyle projects like the Shamalat Cultural Center in Riyadh.
