Studio Fuksas Urges Preservation of Rike Concert Hall in Tbilisi

The Italian architectural practice Studio Fuksas is strongly advocating for the preservation of its Rike Concert Hall in Tbilisi, urging a reconsideration of its proposed demolition and the exploration of alternative uses for the structure. Over the past year, Studio Fuksas has made numerous attempts to engage with Tbilisi officials and the building's current owners to discuss potential solutions, including repurposing the iconic building to avoid its premature destruction, yet their overtures have been met with silence.

Reports from the Georgian press recently indicated that a permit for the demolition of the Rike Park concert hall had been issued by the Tbilisi city government. Constructed between 2010 and 2012 with approximately 40 million euros in public funds, the concert hall has remained vacant for 15 years. It was subsequently sold in 2022 for around 10 million euros and is now under private ownership. Studio Fuksas highlights that proceeding with the demolition would not only signify a substantial cultural loss for an internationally acclaimed architectural work but would also necessitate further public expenditure, contrasting sharply with the potential for its reuse and regeneration.

Studio Fuksas has expressed profound disappointment regarding the decision to demolish the building and the complete lack of dialogue from the city and the building's owners. They emphasize that in over six decades of professional practice, this marks the first instance where one of their projects faces demolition without any opportunity for discussion on alternatives. The studio remains convinced that Tbilisi has a unique chance to transform this unfinished project into a powerful symbol of regeneration, innovation, and international openness, a chance they believe should not be squandered.

Preserving and repurposing existing architectural marvels like the Rike Concert Hall is a testament to foresight and commitment to sustainable urban development. It not only honors the artistic vision of its creators but also demonstrates a community's dedication to cultural heritage and responsible resource management, transforming challenges into opportunities for innovation and public enrichment.