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Text_Lara Dunstan Photography_Terry Carter W Istanbul
One of the constraints of converting an old building is that the architects must work around original features. This means you’re in the ‘bathroom’ as you enter the suite. The rain shower – made with Turkish marble, traditionally used in hammams – is on one side and the stunning vanity unit is on the other.
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With the opening of W, Istanbul has received another massive injection of cool. The W is situated in former residences for Dolmabahce Palace staff, in a series of neo-classical row houses dating from 1870. But there’s nothing old fashioned about the atmosphere inside. Walk along the womb-like corridors until you reach the ‘Spectacular’ suite, room 229.
The little flourishes that make this room stand out include a smart-phone, iPod docking station, Bliss toiletries, and a box of indispensable extras from an umbrella to Alka-Seltzer. And what’s not to love about W’s playful way with the English language? The in-room lighting settings are labelled ‘welcome’, ‘watch’, ‘wonder’, ‘sleep’. No gimmicks required for the bed, though. With W’s signature mattress and 350-thread count sheets, you’ll be snoozing the moment your head hits the pillows.
If the warm, romantic red and bronze accents of the decor and lighting scheme don’t relax you, then retreat behind the billowing curtains to the day bed of your private cabana, awaiting you across a walkway in a walled garden. Take something to read, order some of Jean-George’s fascinating flavours from the Spice Market restaurant and your private Istanbul is as cool as it gets. For bookings and information call +90 212 381 2121.