How to Plan a New Office in Istanbul
A Guide for International Companies
Expanding into Istanbul is a strategic decision for many international companies. The city offers access to regional markets, a strong talent pool and a dynamic business environment.
However, setting up a new office in Istanbul involves more than leasing a space. Without proper planning, companies may face delays, budget overruns and operational challenges.
This guide explains how to plan a new office in Istanbul — from selecting the right space to completing the fit-out process efficiently.
Understanding Office Leasing in Istanbul
In Istanbul, most office spaces are leased in CAT A condition, meaning they are not ready for immediate use.
This typically includes:
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basic flooring and ceilings
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mechanical and electrical infrastructure
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fire safety systems
Before moving in, companies must complete a CAT B fit-out.
You can learn more about these stages here:
OFFICE FIT-OUT IN ISTANBUL – CAT A CAT B CAT C
Understanding Office Leasing in Istanbul
In Istanbul, most office spaces are leased in Shell&Core or CAT A condition, meaning they are not ready for immediate use.
This typically includes:
-
basic flooring and ceilings
-
mechanical and electrical infrastructure
-
fire safety systems
Before moving in, companies must complete a CAT B fit-out.
You can learn more about these stages here:
Step 1: Defining Office Requirements
Before selecting a space, companies should clearly define their needs.
Key questions include:
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How many employees will use the office?
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What type of workspaces are required?
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Is hybrid or full-time working planned?
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Are meeting rooms, private offices or open spaces needed?
This stage directly impacts both space selection and design decisions.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Location
Istanbul offers several key business districts:
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Levent – financial and corporate hub
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Maslak – large office buildings and headquarters
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Ataşehir – growing financial business center on the Asian side
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Kağıthane / Vadistanbul – modern mixed-use developments
Choosing the right location depends on:
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accessibility
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proximity to clients
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employee commute
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brand positioning
Step 3: Space Evaluation Before Leasing
Before signing a lease, it is important to evaluate:
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building infrastructure
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ceiling heights
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column grid and layout flexibility
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technical limitations
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landlord delivery scope
This prevents unexpected constraints during the fit-out stage.
Step 4: Workplace Strategy & Layout Planning
Once the space is selected, planning begins.
This includes:
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space planning
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team zoning
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meeting room strategy
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circulation and workflow
A well-planned office improves both efficiency and employee experience.
Step 5: Interior Design Development
At this stage, the office begins to take shape.
This phase includes:
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concept design
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material and finish selection
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lighting design
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brand integration
For many companies, the office becomes a reflection of corporate identity.
Step 6: Budget Planning and Cost Control
One of the most important aspects of office planning is budget control.
Costs typically depend on:
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design complexity
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material selection
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technical systems
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custom elements
Typical fit-out cost ranges in Istanbul:
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Standard: 750 – 1,000 € / m²
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Mid-level: 1,000 – 1,400 € / m²
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High-end: 1,500 € / m² and above
Step 7: Construction and Fit-Out Process
After design approval, construction begins.
This stage includes:
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site preparation
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construction works
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coordination with building management
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inspections and quality control
You can learn more about the full process here:
OFFICE FIT-OUT PROCESS EXPLAINED
Working With a Local Design & Build Team
For international companies, working with a local team provides significant advantages:
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faster communication
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better contractor coordination
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compliance with local regulations
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on-site supervision
A design & build approach ensures the project is managed from concept to completion.
You can learn more about the full process here:
WHAT IS TURNKEY INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE
Can Office Setup Be Managed Remotely?
Yes.
Many international companies manage their office setup remotely by:
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reviewing designs online
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approving materials digitally
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receiving regular progress updates
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visiting the site at key milestones
This approach is widely used for companies entering the Turkish market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to set up a new office in Istanbul?
Typically between 6 weeks and 4 months, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Do I need to complete a fit-out before moving in?
Yes. Most offices are not usable without a CAT B fit-out.
Can the office be built while employees are working?
It is possible, but not ideal. Phased construction may extend the timeline and affect productivity.
Can international companies manage the process remotely?
Yes. With proper planning and communication, projects can be managed remotely.
Do design firms also handle construction?
Yes. Many firms provide design & build services, covering both design and implementation.
Who Is This Guide For?
This guide is designed for:
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international companies opening offices in Istanbul
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firms relocating teams to Turkey
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investors leasing office spaces
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CEOs and executive assistants managing office setup
This content is based on real project experience in office fit-out and commercial interior architecture.
About Sonraki Interior Architecture
Sonraki Interior Architecture provides design and build services for apartment renovations, villa projects, office fit-outs and commercial interiors.
With offices in Istanbul and London, the studio works with both local and international clients on projects across Turkey and abroad.
Our experience includes residential projects, offices, restaurants and commercial spaces delivered through a coordinated design and implementation process.
Let’s Work Together
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