Restoration in adaptively reused historic buildings: A case study of Bulgur Palas, İmrahor İlyas Bey Mosque, Zeyrek Mosque, Rami Barracks and Kazlıçeşme Sanat

This thesis investigates the processes of restoration and adaptive reuse within the framework of historic building conservation, and evaluates their impacts on spatial, cultural, and functional transformations. The primary aim of the study is to analyze the intervention methods applied to selected examples in Turkey that embody architectural traces of different historical periods, in order to identify conservation approaches that are compatible with the historic environment, contextually coherent, and functionally sustainable. In the theoretical framework, the concept of restoration is examined in line with national and international conservation principles. Types of interventions are classified based on key documents such as the Venice Charter (1964), the Washington Charter (1987), and the Valletta Principles (2011). Adaptive reuse is discussed with reference to its historical development, implementation models, benefits, and limitations, while physical, social, cultural, and legal factors that must be considered during the process are analyzed in detail. In the application section, five structures; Bulgur Palas, Imrahor Ilyas Bey Mosque, Zeyrek Mosque, Rami Barracks, and Kazlıçeşme Sanat are examined comparatively in terms of restoration techniques, intervention decisions related to their architectural identities, and the outcomes of their adaptive reuse processes. The analyses, based on field studies, archival documents, and expert interviews, reveal common challenges encountered in restoration practices and identify key criteria for successful interventions. Ultimately, the study emphasizes that restoration and adaptive reuse practices play a critical role not only in the physical preservation of historic buildings, but also in ensuring cultural continuity and contributing to urban memory. The findings provide valuable academic and practical insights for future conservation practices.