Kagithane in Istanbul: The Heart of Urban Transformation

Home to Europe's 17th-tallest building, Kağıthane in Istanbul represents impressive urban transformation. Considered one of the best areas to live and buy property, and sitting near essential landmarks, the respected real estate market attracts investors from all around the world.

Although not as frequently mentioned as the central districts of Beyoğlu or Fatih, there is considerable potential for house buyers and city living. As a real estate agent, we are on hand to help you get to know the area. All our viewing trips also include neighbourhood amenities, not just the property. In the meantime, here are the key facts.

Guide to Kağıthane in Istanbul

Important Facts and Figures

Covering 15 square kilometres and with a population of nearly 500,000, Kağıthane sits on the European side of Istanbul, approximately a forty-minute drive away on the D020 highway from Istanbul New Airport. Located at the far northern end of the Golden Horn, the name refers to its industrial past as a paper mill, which was a working district.

During Ottoman times, the area had a prestigious reputation as a hunting ground, and many members of the nobility had summer palaces there. During the industrial era, the atmosphere transformed into a working district, but by the year 2000, urban regeneration efforts paid off, and the area regained its solid reputation. Kağıthane also sits on the M7 and M11 metro lines, which is one reason why it attracts many working commuters.  

Neighbourhoods to Live in

Altogether, there are 19 neighbourhoods for house buyers to choose from. One stands out as more prominent. Çağlayan, home to the Istanbul Justice Courthouse, and with roughly 31,000 residents, is also home to an underground station on the M7 metro line, located on Abide-i Hürriyet Street. The areas of Sarıyer, Beşiktaş, Şişli, Beyoğlu, and Eyüpsultan surround all districts.

Famous Landmarks

Although the original structure no longer exists, Sadabad Palace earns fame as a cultural park and notable landmark. First built in the 18th century Tulip era on the banks of the Kagithane stream, it was used as a war academy during World War I, and then as an orphanage. Eventually demolished in 1943, it is now home to an energy museum. The other claim to fame is the Istanbul Sapphire Tower, a mixed-use building that combines a shopping mall and residential premises. Sapphire Istanbul, at one point, was the tallest building in the city, embodying the quintessential concept of penthouse living.

The Real Estate Market

Having shown significant growth over the past few years, the average square metre of an apartment in Kagithane is 90 square metres, with the Talatpaşa, Sultan Selim, Telsizler, Mehmet Akif Ersoy, and Gültepe neighbourhoods showing the most increase in value. Istanbul Kagithane apartments stand out in European Istanbul, thanks to the reputation of the neighbourhood and the standard of architecture in new builds.

Across the district, there are 300 parks to provide family-friendly places to live, and the Metro lines, as well as the T5 tramway, make this an excellent area for commuters who need to access nearby business centres, like Levent. In addition to being home to many primary and secondary education schools, it is just a short distance from the prestigious Istanbul Technical University and shopping malls like Vadi Istanbul.

Exploring Nearby Districts

Prestigious Sisli: Şişli, a cosmopolitan district, 20-minute drive away, is known for its commercial hubs, historic neighbourhoods, and cultural landmarks. As a key business and residential area, Sisli is home to major shopping centres like Cevahir Mall, upscale hotels, corporate offices, and a variety of dining and entertainment options. The district also includes culturally rich neighbourhoods like upmarket Nişantaşı, famous for its luxury boutiques and cafes, as well as historical sites like the Atatürk Museum. Browse Sisli properties here.

Upmarket Beşiktaş: Also situated 20 minutes away, Beşiktaş, a lively and historic district along the Bosphorus Strait, boasts youthful energy and serves as a central hub for education, transportation, and nightlife. The area features iconic landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace and the Naval Museum, as well as vibrant Ortaköy, where visitors enjoy cafes, art markets, and stunning views of the Bosphorus Bridge. With a strong presence of university students and football fans supporting the famous Beşiktaş JK club, the district blends tradition and modernity. Browse Besiktas properties here.

Is Kağıthane a good place to live?

Kağıthane is a good place to live. Once a more industrial area, it has undergone rapid urban transformation in recent years, with the development of new residential complexes, shopping centres, and infrastructure projects. It offers relatively more affordable housing compared to central districts like Şişli or Beşiktaş, and its central location provides convenient access to business hubs like Levent and Maslak. However, check the specific neighbourhood within the district, as amenities and house values vary across them.

What is the meaning of Kağıthane?

The name Kağıthane comes from the Turkish words "kağıt" (paper) and "hane" (house or place), meaning "paper house" or "paper mill." The area acquired its name during the Ottoman period, when it was home to state-run paper production facilities, primarily used for official documents. Over time, the area evolved from a countryside retreat for Ottoman elites into a working-class industrial zone, and today it's a rapidly developing urban district.

Next Step - Work with Trusted Experts

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