In a city famous for its coffee culture, one thing is for sure; there is no shortage of cafes in Istanbul. Everywhere you turn you are almost guaranteed to find a place to sit and enjoy your Turkish coffee.However, if you have grown tired of the same old places and are searching for a new spot to enjoy some conversation with friends, the NevMekan, located in the Bağlarbaşı neighborhood of Üsküdar, is the new place for Istanbulites. Nevmekan is the combination of two words: 'Nev' meaning 'new' in Farsi and 'mekan' meaning place or venue; in other words, the 'New place'. Here, literature, music and art come together to offer a fresh new scene for your social gatherings. In a way, it is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis without having to travel outside of the city.When you step inside you will find yourself surrounded in books. With the aim of bringing the arts and youth together, The NevMekan is more than just a hip new café. The unique design and open space offers a perfect place where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while flipping through the pages of your favorite book, study with friends or just relax. As seen in its nostalgic architecture, the building has a story behind its structure. The building's construction began during the late Ottoman Empire (1911) and was completed in 1928, after the Republic was formed. It was built as a result of the combined works of Ürgüplü Hayri Bey and the era's renowned architect, Ali Talat Bey.The building was used as a depot for the city's trams from 1928, up until the late 1960's. After the tram services were halted on the Asian side of Istanbul in 1966, it was used as a garage for Istanbul's public transportation busses until 1998. The building was left unused for a few years, but given the historic fabric of the area, it was decided that the building was to be turned into a cultural center in 2008. Despite its "industrial" past, once you step inside you will notice the tranquil and soothing atmosphere reflected through the décor and books, which welcome you with open arms.Inside, Ottoman influence in the interior design is perfectly paired with the buildings industrial edge. The wide-open space offers two floors where guests can find the perfect spot to curl up with a book. The lower level is beautifully decorated with Turkish mosaic tiles and offers rows upon rows of books, which you can browse from before selecting the perfect one for yourself. Venture out the back and you can enjoy the beautiful patio garden with the company of your books.The second level loft offers a quiet relaxing atmosphere overlooking the entire building. Seating areas are all uniquely designed with rich velvet sofas and chairs, offering a soft classic elegance against the industrial ceilings and huge arched windows. The venue also houses a small art gallery where international and national artists are able to display their works for guests. To appreciate the strong sense of tranquility the NevMekan has to offer, the best time to visit is in the evening. Soft lighting and beautiful ottoman inspired chandeliers create the perfect mood and set the scene for you to enjoy your tea and conversation in peace.The NevMekan also offers itself as a venue where various culture and art organizations can hold their events in partnership with Üsküdar Municipality. In addition to coffee and tea, the venue offers a light menu including a selection of pastas, paninis, salads and desserts, the perfect option for students staying long hours to study. The price range at NevMekan is pretty reasonable, despite its posh, yet cozy, atmosphere. An outing for two people would be around 35 TL to 45 TL on average . Nevmekan is located on Selami Ali Mh., Gazi Cd. No:12, Üsküdar and it is open 7-days-a-week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. For students that would like to study, it also offers free WIFI.So, when you are in need of some peace and quiet or are searching for a creative space where you can feel inspired to get some work done, visit the NevMekan to have your next cup of Turkish coffee.