SAHC2014 – 9 th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions F. Peña & M. Chávez (eds.) Mexico City, Mexico, 14–17 October 2014 CONSERVING 20 TH CENTURY ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE: A STUDY ON DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSFORMATION PROCESS OF TALIMHANE Ebru O. Polat 1 , Ebru H. Aslan 2 , Elifnaz Durusoy 2 , M. Cengiz Can 2 1 Yildiz Technical University, Faculty of Architecture Istanbul, Turkey e-mail: ebruomay@yahoo.com 2 Yildiz Technical University, Faculty of Architecture Istanbul, Turkey {ebruharman, elifnazdurusoy, cengizcan55}@gmail.com Keywords: 20 th Century Architectural Heritage, Values, Functional Conversion, Talimhane. Abstract. At the turn of the 21 th century, theory and practice of conservation started to be re- spected within a broader building stock by including the 20 th century architectural heritage. Since it is an example that opens “to bring the significance of the modern movement to the attention of the public, the authorities, the professionals and the educational community con- cerned with the built environment” expression of 1990 Eindhoven Statement of DO.CO.MO.MO international working party into discussion, conservation effort of Talim- hane residential area in Istanbul, Turkey, can be appreciated as a typical 20 th century archi- tectural heritage problematic. Talimhane exemplifies an integrated symbol for Istanbul; besides its substantial physical characteristics, this historically valuable area is respected in terms of functional, aesthetic, social and economic value contexts. However, because of its proximity to major tourism nodes, Talimhane become attractive to associated governmental authorities. Starting from the beginning of 2000s, the residential usage of Talimhane was de- cided to be transformed into different functions related to tourism. As a result, the physical structure of Talimhane has been witnessing diverse changes from macro to micro scales. This problematic attempt has led various construction trials in the forms of new constructions, re- constructions and/or partial modifications such as changes in the existing mass proportions, facade organizations, construction techniques and materials. In light of the foregoing, the main subject of this research is to explore the development and transformation process of Talimhane in regard to physical, functional, aesthetic, social and economic contexts. The study aims to examine the change of 20 th century buildings in Talimhane by considering their functional conversion in exchange for the benefits of tourism. By assessing the values and current situation of Talimhane in a holistic manner, this work is further intended to present a discussion on the issues regarding the conservation and sustainability of this unique area.