Fuksas Studio's Rike Tubes in Tbilisi Ordered Demolished by December 25
In Tbilisi, Georgia, two cultural structures created by Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas are slated for demolition by December 25, as announced by the Architecture Service of Tbilisi City Hall. Known informally as the "Rike Tubes," these buildings may be removed to make way for a new hotel, following a government order. The Fuksas Studio is against the demolition, pushing for the site's preservation. Commissioned in 2010 during Prime Minister Nika Gilauri's tenure, the complex was completed in 2012 for exhibitions and performances but has been unused since work halted after Gilauri was removed from office. Makros Constructions acquired it in 2025. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze criticized the design, while preservation advocates labeled the demolition a "civic and cultural failure." Fuksas expressed his astonishment at the decision.
Key facts
- Tbilisi City Hall's Architecture Service ordered demolition by December 25.
- Buildings designed by Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas of Fuksas Studio.
- Informally called the 'Rike Tubes.'
- May be cleared for a new hotel per Georgian government decree.
- Commissioned in 2010 under Prime Minister Nika Gilauri.
- Built in 2012 to host musical performances and exhibitions.
- Located in Rike Park, near Fuksas Studio's Public Service Hall.
- Construction suspended after Gilauri was ousted in 2012.
- Exoskeleton complete but interiors unfinished.
- Current owner Makros Constructions bought the complex in 2025.
- Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze expressed dislike in 2025.
- Georgia Today editorial board opposed demolition.
- Fuksas Studio lost contact with Georgian government after suspension.
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Fuksas Studio
- Tbilisi City Hall's Architecture Service
- Georgian government
- Cultural Heritage Council
- Georgia Today
- Makros Constructions
- Studio Fuksas
- Dezeen
- Tbilisi city government
- Makro Constructions
- Inter Press News
Locations
- Tbilisi
- Georgia
- Rike Park
- Kura River
- Old Town
- Caucasus Mountains
- Rome
- Monaco
- Rhike Park