Arrival!

We have arrived in Istanbul, after what seemed like an almost endless day(night?) of traveling. Upon coming within distance of the city, the clouds broke and we were able to see a beautiful reflection of light off of the water, foreshadowing the intense relationship of architecture and light that we will see throughout the city. The photo really does not do it justice.

Upon arriving at the airport, we were picked up and driven along the sea to our hotel, allowing us to get a prolonged experience (thanks to heavy traffic) of the interaction between the posterior walls and the city. These walls are truly incredible, displaying layers and layers of development and redevelopment, and are not simply walls, but create spaces within and around them. There are areas where you can see previous holes in the wall patched up with smaller stones. The walls truly speak to the ancient quality of the city.

Along the waterfront, life is vibrant. There were many, many people walking along the water, fishing, or having a picnic on the green space along the water. The areas are clearly not over designed and the people tend to use what is there, even if it is just an open patch of grass. The social aspect of the water as a gathering space is very clear, not only in the groups of people casually strolling along the water, but also the popularity of fishing, which seems to be just as much of a social event as a means of attaining food. I don't really have any good photos of the waterfront, but there will be some to come.

To everyone in Boston,
We wish you were here with us, but we will do our best to make sure the experiences are equally shared.

Jesse,
The first surprise I had was the usage of the waterfront. Even though highly neglected from a design point, the waterfront was absolutely filled with life. The social aspect of Turkish culture is extremely important. Hopefully this helps a little, I will post more thoughts for you, but right now we have to leave.

Bryan