The five-star Telegraph Hotel, located in the historic center of Tbilisi, recently hosted a lecture by internationally acclaimed architect and designer Lyndon Neri, Founding Partner of Neri&Hu Design and Research Office. Together with his partner, Rossana Hu, he leads one of the world’s most distinguished architectural studios, which developed the architectural concept for the Telegraph Hotel.

During the lecture, Mr. Neri shared with guests the story of the project’s creation in collaboration with Silk Development. He highlighted how historical heritage served as a central source of inspiration for merging tradition with contemporary design, and how every detail was carefully reimagined as a foundation for innovation. Mr. Neri also spoke about the guiding principles of Neri&Hu and presented several of the studio’s most distinguished projects, which have become significant sources of inspiration in the international architecture and design community.

“When Silk Development approached us regarding the Telegraph Hotel project, we were immediately intrigued by the opportunity. From the outset, we recognized the site’s historical significance and hidden potential. The Telegraph building occupies a unique place in Tbilisi’s collective memory – not only as a landmark, but also as a space of communication, connection, and exchange.

It is also worth noting that the vision of Silk Road Group’s founder, Mr. George Ramishvili, was fully aligned with our approach from the very beginning. Both parties clearly understood that the building must preserve its historic value while also being adapted to a new era. Mr. Ramishvili is a remarkably farsighted leader, and collaborating with him was an exceptionally rewarding and inspiring experience.”
– Lyndon Neri

Mr. Neri emphasized that the Telegraph Hotel was not intended as a conventional reconstruction project, but rather as a rethinking and reinterpretation of the building.

“Our aim was never limited to restoring the architectural shell. We believe the true essence lies in reviving the ‘soul’ the building once possessed. Judging by the vibrant atmosphere and the steady flow of visitors to the Telegraph, I believe we have succeeded in achieving this vision.”

The original architecture of the Telegraph was designed by Lado Alexi-Meskhishvili and Teimuraz Mikashavidze. Its façade, clad in Bolnisi tuff, creates a distinctive visual effect that harmonizes with Tbilisi’s urban fabric. The renewed hotel design preserves authentic architectural details while introducing modern refinements.

About Neri&Hu

Neri&Hu Design and Research Office is internationally recognized as one of the leading voices in contemporary architecture. Founded in Shanghai by Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu, the studio has developed an extensive portfolio of distinguished projects worldwide. Their practice is rooted in a rigorous exploration of space, framing architecture as an intersection of history, culture, and daily life. Particularly renowned for their expertise in the adaptive reuse of historic structures, Neri&Hu’s work masterfully balances past and present. This approach has earned the studio numerous prestigious international awards and recognition.

About Silk Development

Since 2005, Silk Development has been delivering landmark projects in the real estate sector, distinguished by their international standards and ability to blend seamlessly with unique locations and natural surroundings. The company’s portfolio includes the Radisson Blu hotels in Tbilisi and Batumi, the Radisson Collection Hotel in Tsinandali, Park Hotel Tsinandali, the Tsinandali Estate Villas, the Republic Complex, Iveria Beach Club, the nightclub Noble Savage, Iveria Café, the Neptune Sports Complex, and Green Cape Botanico.

Most recently, Silk Development unveiled a new 20,000-square-meter recreational space in Batumi, designed in collaboration with the international firm Masu Planning. This project represents the initial phase of the large-scale Silk Towers development, currently being designed by the renowned Japanese architectural firm Kengo Kuma and Associates.