İzmir’s historic Şato building becomes a hub for students

The historic Şato building in İzmir has transitioned from its mid-century origins into a modern community hub. Originally designed in 1954 by architects Rıza Aşkan and Doğan Tekeli as ‘Şark Kahvesi’, the two-story structure was built on sloping land near Varyant to provide residents with a clean environment for relaxation and entertainment.

Over the decades, the building’s function has evolved through various uses, including a wedding hall and a restaurant. Currently managed by the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality, the site operates as both a library and ‘İzmirli Kahve’. While it maintains its historical connection to coffee culture, the demographic has shifted; the space is now primarily used by young people for studying, reading, and preparing for exams while overlooking the Gulf of İzmir and Karşıyaka.