NOCCASO x The Gracee Istanbul

A New Experience Shaped by Design on the Bosphorus

Set against the unique atmosphere of the Bosphorus, The Gracee Istanbul was conceived as a new-generation gastronomic destination bringing together gastronomy, design, music, and the culture of private events under one experiential concept. Combining a restaurant, lounge, sunset cruise, and private event spaces within a single destination, the venue’s entire interior architecture, planning, bespoke furniture production, textile designs, and decorative language were developed by NOCPLACES, the architecture and interior design brand of NOCCASO, founded by Bursa-based architect sisters Necibe Sönmez Vardar and Ceyda Vardar.

For NOCCASO, The Gracee Istanbul represented far more than simply renovating the interior of a boat. The primary objective of the project was to completely redefine the brand’s character, atmosphere, and guest experience through a holistic design approach. With this in mind, the design deliberately moved away from the traditional decorative language that has long been associated with boats. The heavy, classic appearance dominated by reddish wood surfaces was transformed into a contemporary, warm, layered, and distinctive spatial language.

One of the areas where this transformation is most evident is the restaurant level. The design aimed to challenge the common perception that guests generally prefer open-air spaces on boats and spend less time in enclosed areas. For this reason, the restaurant level was approached not simply as a place for dining, but as an original living space where guests would want to spend extended periods of time and discover new details with every visit.

The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant level was created through a balanced combination of colour, pattern, and texture. The natural character of wood was softened with shades of powder pink, cinnamon, burgundy, and cream, while geometric patterns, organic lines, and textured fabrics brought movement and depth to the space. Different textiles and surfaces were brought together in a harmonious whole through shared colour transitions. The placement of the bespoke furniture was planned not only with aesthetic considerations in mind, but also to encourage interaction between guests and support the social flow of the restaurant.

This layered design approach continues across the flooring of the restaurant level. A mosaic pattern specially developed for the project was brought to life following an intensive production process lasting approximately two months in Hatay. Thousands of handmade mosaic pieces, each measuring only 1 x 2 centimetres, were individually assembled to create an original composition. An unconventional material choice for boats, the mosaic floor was transformed from a complementary surface into one of the most distinctive design elements of the restaurant level.

The deck was designed with flexibility in mind, using outdoor furniture selected according to different user groups and scenarios. It can seamlessly adapt to dining experiences, cocktail gatherings, sunset cruises, and private events. Positioned at an elevated point at the bow, the daybed area offers guests the opportunity to experience the Bosphorus from a more tranquil and privileged vantage point. Soft colours, graphic patterns, and comfort-focused textiles used across the wooden deck establish a natural connection with Istanbul’s historic skyline and the deep blue of the Bosphorus.

As the light changes throughout the day, so does the atmosphere of The Gracee Istanbul. During daylight hours, the details of the patterns and textures come to the forefront, while at sunset, the space takes on a warmer, more romantic, and sophisticated character. In this way, the interior and exterior spaces are not treated as separate environments, but as different parts of a single experience that evolves with the rhythm of the day.

What makes The Gracee Istanbul unique is the way gastronomy, music, entertainment, and design are approached not as independent elements, but as interconnected components of the same story. The interior architectural concept bearing the NOCPLACES signature allows the venue to adapt to a wide range of events and uses, while making The Gracee Istanbul’s strong identity visible in every detail.

For NOCCASO and NOCPLACES, this project represents a new approach to life on the water—one that is not defined solely by the concept of luxury. Bringing craftsmanship together with contemporary design, comfort with a strong visual language, and the unique atmosphere of the Bosphorus with social life, The Gracee Istanbul offers its guests far more than a journey: it presents a holistic Istanbul experience shaped by design.