Istanbul is a city that is rapidly transforming as a result of globalization. Istanbul 2010 sees the city as a valuable public resource rather than merely an open stage where cultural activities will be staged. One of the main arguments of Istanbul 2010 is that due to comprehensive privatizations and irrevocable large-scale renewal projects the city is subject to radical structural changes. This reconstruction process leads to numerous socio-economic problems as well. The city is in jeopardy of losing its public characteristics. Therefore Istanbul 2010 is focusing its efforts on urban transformation processes, so that through civil partnerships and enterprises the city may resume serving public interests.
All Urban Implementations Projects

New center of attraction in the global city Preparations started for the international architectural competition and the master plan of the Yenikapı Transfer center.

Istanbul 2010 Wednesday Meetings Traditional Wednesday Meetings where the Istanbul 2010 ECOC Agency hosts specialists on culture-arts and urban implementations as speakers to address the general public.

Transformation of the Vortvots Vorodman Church into a Culture Center Vortvots Vorodman Church, designed by Krikor Balyan, stands as the landmark of the “Culture Island” theme of the project.

Revitalizing Built Environments: Requalifying Old Places For New Uses The fourth of the international “Culture and Space Symposium Series” organized by the IAPS – CSBE (Culture and Space in the Built Environment) Network and the IAPS-Housing Network will be held in Istanbul on 12-16 October 2009.

Design Talks This project brings some of the world’s most important designers and trend experts to Istanbul so that they may share their experience and expertise with Turkish designers and international visitors.

Imkan Mekan (Opportunity Location) Istanbul Workshops This project involves transformations of public spaces through civic participation.

Armenian architects of Istanbul International Hrant Dink Foundation (UHDV) plans an architectural exhibition project for Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture in order to share the history of Armenian architecture in Istanbul with larger masses.

2010 City Contact Points: "2010 Open Boxes" Developed in cooperation with cultural institutions, the project "Open Box" is intended for facilitating public access to cultural activities.