Our Building Story

Both Alexandre D. Neocosmos Yenidunia and C.P. Kyriakides were born and educated in Istanbul. They graduated from Sanayi-i Nefise Mektebi which is todays Mimar Sinan University.

The Ravouna Building, designed by C.P. Kyriakides as an antique boutique and home for the Italian Ravouna Family in 1894 and built during 1901-1906 together with A.D. Yenidunia is one of the two best preserved Art Nouveau buildings in Beyoglu. The names of the architects can be seen on the building as well as the letters RF for Ravouna Family. Kyirakides designed the building and Greek architect Yenidunia designed the wooden interiors and accessories as an antique shop. Another writing found on the building is G. &RFL MICHELINI ENTERPRENEURS represents the Italian enterpreneurs who undertook the production of the building. Kyrikides worked in Istanbul until 1922 when he immigrated to Athens.

About Ravouna

 

Art Nouveau meaning New Art is the style of art that was popular at the end of the 19th century and beginning of 20th century. During the 25 years that this style was popular many important masterpieces were created.

The Ravouna Suites Building was built in the Art Nouveau period by Alexandre D. Neocosmos Yenidunia and C.P. Kyriakides who have their signature on quite a few other buildings built during the same period in Istanbul. Ravouna 1906 serves keeping the historical soul.With elegant decorations in the foreground plant motifs were commonly used as can be seen on the exterior of the Ravouna Building. As a reaction to the academic art, art nouveau suggested being new and modern as opposed to the idea of the revival of ancient techniques adopted during the 19th century. Art Nouveau has affinities with the symbolist styles and has many different names in other countries. It is not known for sure when the Ravouna Family left the building. It is said that after thay left it was used as a bookstore.It has changed hands many times and has been use as a jewellery store in recent years. The restoration of the building was designed by architect Halil Onur and carried out by Galata Yapı. In 2012 it changed hands and was designed by Öney Mimarlık. At present it is in service as Ravouna 1906 Suites and Ravouna Coffee&Bar. The building is a second degree listed historical building.