Project: Cityzen Tower
Architecture: Zaha Hadid Architects
Team: Manuela Gatto, Yevgeniya Pozigun, Takehiko Iseki, Massimo Napoleoni, Armando Bussey, Bowen Miao, Maria Avrami, Kutbuddin Nadiadi
Design: Patrik Schumacher
Local Architect: Artstudio Project
Structural Engineers: Capiteli
Location: Tbilisi, Georgia
Year: 2028
Rendering: Negativ
Cityzen Tower by Zaha Hadid Architects stands as a visionary addition to Tbilisi’s evolving urban landscape. Encompassing new homes, civic amenities, workspaces, shopping, and dining, this landmark creates a vibrant civic hub in the west of the city. Moreover, with 23,000 sq. m of landscaped outdoor areas, the development fosters community and offers ample space for recreation and relaxation.
Seamless Integration of Urban and Natural Elements
First, Cityzen Tower reflects Tbilisi’s unique context, informed by its rolling hills and river valleys. Consequently, the tower’s design echoes the natural undulations of the surrounding landscape, positioning it as a vertical extension of the adjacent Central Park. In addition, cascading landscaped terraces extend from the building, transitioning from community cafés and restaurants at lower levels to office balconies and residential spaces above. As a result, every apartment benefits from excellent natural lighting and panoramic views of both the park and the city skyline. Furthermore, the design unifies expansive communal areas with the smaller, diamond‑shaped footprint of the residences, creating an incremental twist in the overall composition.
Sustainable Design for Optimal Comfort
Next, sustainability is at the core of Cityzen Tower’s design. Detailed wind and solar analyses inform the design of this 42‑storey tower to ensure optimal natural ventilation in Tbilisi’s humid temperate climate. For example, extended balconies and external louvres minimize direct sunlight in summer while enhancing solar radiation in winter, thereby reducing energy demand. Moreover, the tower’s concrete structure honors Tbilisi’s longstanding construction expertise by engaging local suppliers and workforce. Additionally, the project is designed to achieve LEED Gold certification by targeting the use of locally recycled materials, implementing rainwater collection and reuse, and using native vegetation that requires minimal supplemental irrigation.
A Visionary Urban Landmark
Finally, Cityzen Tower is more than just a building—it is a gateway to a dynamic new urban district. By retaining 250 mature trees and integrating interconnected pedestrian routes, public plazas, and gardens, the project creates a cohesive, vibrant community space. Furthermore, the design serves as a symbol of innovative urban planning where art, architecture, and nature converge seamlessly. Scheduled for completion in 2028, Cityzen Tower marks Zaha Hadid Architects’ first project in Georgia and underscores IG Development Georgia’s commitment to modern design and sustainability.
Ultimately, Cityzen Tower redefines the intersection of urbanism and nature. By combining visionary design with practical sustainability measures, it offers a transformative space that harmonizes contemporary living with the natural beauty of Tbilisi.
