Istanbul represents a vast field for experimentation and dialogue between the wonderful examples of historical and traditional Turkish architecture and the new demands of contemporary design. In the 21st century, the city of Istanbul began a new urban transformation process, aimed at becoming an important hub for trade and finance. Today, the Turkish metropolis can be defined as a megacity with the construction of new financial centres, shopping malls, and infrastructures such as airports, bridges and tourist ports.

The structural transformations in society have led to a shift in the urban morphology that, in turn, has generated not only social and cultural changes, but also an identity crisis in the city itself. Within this scenario, the guide not only offers a horizontal view of contemporary architecture, but also acts as a means for analysing new architectural directions and contemporary urban development in Istanbul. As well as the itineraries that feature selected buildings, both contemporary and historic, the guide includes critical essays that provide an analysis of the history, urban planning, and the future of the city.