Tbilisi City Hall has approved the demolition of the Rike Park Music Theatre and Exhibition Hall, the distinctive tube-shaped complex designed by Studio Fuksas.
The building was commissioned in 2011 but was never officially opened to the public. It has stood on the left bank of the Mtkvari River, near the Peace Bridge, as one of the capital’s most recognisable and debated modern structures.
A long-disputed landmark
Its futuristic design has long divided opinion among residents, architects and public officials. Supporters viewed the structure as an ambitious addition to Tbilisi’s contemporary identity, while critics questioned its appearance, cost and lack of a clear operational future.
The decision clears the way for the complex to be removed after more than a decade without regular public use. City Hall has not detailed a timetable for demolition or announced what would replace the site.
What happens next
Rike Park is a major public space in central Tbilisi, connecting the historic district with the riverfront and nearby cultural landmarks. Any redevelopment will therefore attract attention beyond the building itself.
The theatre’s planned removal marks the end of a polarising chapter in the city’s architectural landscape. Further details on the project’s schedule, site management and future use are expected from City Hall.
