Cityzen skyscraper in Tbilisi,
design: Zaha Hadid Architects
At the intersection of Mikheil Tamarashvili and University streets in Tbilisi, the Cityzen Tower project, by Zaha Hadid Architects, is born. This 42-story spiral skyscraper, yet to be built in the rapidly developing Saburtalo district, combines residential, office and recreational functions, blending into the landscape of the Georgian capital.
The Cityzen skyscraper will be built at the intersection of Mikheil Tamarashvili and University streets in Tbilisi.
visualization: negative © Zaha Hadid Architects
from the past to the future
The area where the Cityzen Tower is planned used to be occupied by the Soviet Army Command, a key command in the Caucasus. Today Saburtalo, located in the west of Tbilisi, pulsates with energy - from university campuses to Line 2 metro stations and new housing developments. The Cityzen project aims to give the neighborhood a new identity: a place where the city intertwines with nature. Twenty-three thousand square meters will feature plazas, alleys and gardens that will bring residents closer to each other and to the greenery. The neighborhood of the future Central Park - 36 hectares full of gardens, forests and playing fields - reinforces this idea. The preservation of 250 existing trees is a nod to nature that gives the project a deeper dimension. Cityzen doesn't just plan, it respects - the landscape and community ties.
a form that will revitalize the city
Cityzen Tower draws inspiration from the rolling hills and valleys of Tbilisi. The design is distinguished by a slender, dynamically twisted silhouette that seems to rise toward the sky. The glass façade, with its cascading, undulating arrangements, is designed to reflect its surroundings - the park, the streets and the warm light of the setting sun - harmoniously linking the skyscraper to the landscape. At the base, extensive, rounded structures are planned with elements in warm wooden tones that contrast with the glass of the upper floors. Green terraces on the lower floors, densely planted with vegetation, look like gardens floating in the air - spaces for relaxing, meeting over coffee or working among nature. With height, the terraces evolve: next to offices they will become places for integration, and in apartments they will transform into spacious balconies with panoramic views of the city and park.
The Cityzen skyscraper in Tbilisi will have glass facades with a cascading layout and green terraces at the lower floors
visualization: negative © Zaha Hadid Architects
city in a skyscraper
Cityzen Tower will occupy 57,000 square meters, combining various functions. Stores, cafes and offices are planned for the lower floors, which will enliven the neighborhood. The upper floors will be filled with apartments, designed with light and views in mind. ZHA is cleverly changing the building's floor plan, from open spaces at the bottom to intimate, rhombus-shaped floor plans for the apartments above. Each floor will gain its own character, and the whole will retain a fluidity of form.The spiral layout of the elevations andaras is planned with light and ventilation in mind, key to Tbilisi's changing climate.
The Cityzen skyscraper in Tbilisi will occupy 57,000 square meters, combining various functions
visualization: negative © Zaha Hadid Architects
green future
The Cityzen Tower project is aiming for LEED Gold certification, with a focus on ecology. Green terraces are expected to cool the building and purify the air. Native plants, requiring no watering, are a money-saver and a respect for local nature. A rainwater harvesting system will allow water to be reused, relieving the burden on the environment. Analysis of wind and sun helped design balconies and louvers to protect against heat in summer and let in more light in winter. This will reduce energy consumption. Materials, whenever possible, will be local and recycled. It's a design that thinks about the planet and the users.
A bridge between nature and the city
Cityzen Tower is intended to be a gateway to a new neighborhood, connecting the park with the urban rhythm. Terraces that will seamlessly transition into the greenery of Central Park will invite strolls and conversations. Pedestrian paths will facilitate access to the subway, universities or playgrounds, making the neighborhood open and friendly. The design does not dominate, but interacts with the city. Its organic form contrasts with the street grid, but does not overwhelm.
The spiral layout of the facades and terraces was planned with light and ventilation in mind, crucial in Tbilisi's changing climate
visualization: negative © Zaha Hadid Architects
a symbol of future Georgia
This is Zaha Hadid Architects' first project in Georgia, making it a global event. The Cityzen Tower, due to be completed in 2028, is part of Tbilisi's vision of an open, green and modern metropolis. The Cityzen district, with the skyscraper in the center, could become its showcase. Behind the project is local partner Cityzen, part of IG Development Georgia, known for its innovative approach. The collaboration with ZHA shows that Georgia can combine global visions with local expertise to create something unique.
towards tomorrow
Zaha Hadid Architects' vision weaves the city with nature, work with relaxation, tradition with innovation. Green terraces, spiral form and environmental concerns make this project more than a building. This is the future of Tbilisi - a city that grows, breathes and reaches for the stars.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Zaha Hadid Architects.
