lounge area with dark chartreuse couch and wooden chairs
The ClubHouse, designed by Turkish architecture and design studio Geo_ID, was transformed from a former gym into a retro club inspired by 1950s design.

February 24, 2025

Words: Maghie Ghali

Photography: Ibrahim Ozbunar

Step Back In Time In This Retro-Chic Istanbul Club

Turkish architecture and interior design studio Geo_ID has transformed a former gym into a retro membership club and versatile multifunctional space that is inspired by 1950s design, combining modern comfort and contemporary aesthetics. The ClubHouse, which opened a few months ago in Istanbul, is furnished with a carefully curated mix of special furniture pieces, lighting accessories, and objects from the owner’s own collection, seeking to create a timeless style infused with mid-century charm.

In keeping with the materials of the era, the space has been decorated with high-quality polished oak wood wall panels, giving color and texture to the interiors. This is contrasted by exposed concrete ceilings with a linear cassette system, spotlights, LED lighting niches, and techno-cement floors, drawing inspiration from the brutalist architecture of the time.

For The ClubHouse, Geo_ID Mixes Retro Vibes With Modern Versatility

lounge area with dark chartreuse couch and wooden chairs
The ClubHouse, designed by Turkish architecture and design studio Geo_ID, was transformed from a former gym into a retro club inspired by 1950s design.

“The former gym space was completely redesigned from scratch, with new areas added to complement the preexisting gym facilities,” GEO_ID co-founder Tugce Rizeli Bilgi says. “We renovated the entrance area with a welcome desk and reconfigured circulation paths for better flow, as well as redesigned the changing rooms with luxurious materials, oak lockers, and modern mid-century elements.

“We also created a speakeasy bar space that features gridded shelving with LED lighting, perfect for hosting intimate gatherings or enjoying drinks,” he adds. “And added flexible lounge areas suitable for working, dining, socializing, or holding business meetings.”

Explore ClubHouse Amenities 

clubhouse in brightly lit room with wooden panels next to a gym
Alongside a gym, the ClubHouse hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, events and parties.
wooden bathroom area with dark wood walls and stalls
The changing rooms have been refreshed with oak lockers and modern mid-century elements.
space with two green marble bars in a brightly lit room with cement flooring
In the main space, two facing bars made of green marble cater to different functions—one for food workshops with a fully equipped hidden kitchen behind it, and the other for regular bar use—with a long table between them serving multiple purposes.

The ClubHouse Features An Earthy Palette And Luxurious Furnishings

room with multiple records on the wall, with LED lighting and dark brown armchairs
The Listening Room features a generous record collection displayed on a gridded shelf system, with wall wash LED lighting and a DJ set for parties, inviting club members to explore the collection.
lounge area with dark wooden paneled walls and brown chairs
The lounge area is adaptable for working, eating, socializing, or hosting events, with various seating options to suit members’ preferences.
lounge leading into the terrace with glass folding separators
The terrace, with glass folding separators, blurs the indoor-outdoor boundary, maximizing the stunning view.
area of bar with green marble and wooden panels
The green marble continues on some wall sections within the bar niche.
lounge area with dark wooden panels and chess area
Part of the lounge area, members can gather together to read or play chess.

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