Demolition of Rike Concert Hall begins in Georgia
The iconic structure, closed for 12 years, started demolition just two weeks after permit approval
1Iconic structure closed for 12 years
The Rike Concert Hall in Tbilisi was designed by Italian architecture firm Studio Fuksas. The tube-shaped structure had remained unopened since 2012. Footage shared by local TV Pirveli shows the scale-like cladding being removed. Architects described the demolition decision as 'a significant cultural setback'.
2Speed of demolition surprises observers
Georgian authorities issued the demolition permit on June 5. Heavy machinery moved in just 12 days after approval, sparking backlash from preservation groups. The building's cost had exceeded $40 million. Local officials stated the demolition was part of 'urban regeneration plans'.
3Campaign to save Glasgow School of Art
Scottish architect Ruairidh Moir launched a campaign to save the fire-damaged Mackintosh Building. School management stated they couldn't afford reconstruction costs. The petition demands an independent body take over the project. It's gathered 8,972 signatures so far, with a 100,000 target before delivery to UK governments.
4MVRDV's Shenzhen art village proposal
Dutch firm MVRDV unveiled designs for Bihailou Art Village in Shenzhen. The cultural hub features stacked colorful volumes focusing on China's creative industries. The project comes as the studio faces criticism for its green-walled Rotterdam Rocks! design, which author Barnabas Calder called 'a new specimen of plant-washing'.
5Vertical data center designs emerge
SOM revealed plans for a 20-story 'vertical data center' in Kansas City. As AI drives demand, vertical solutions challenge traditional horizontal facilities. In London, Morris+Company is planning a data center at the Truman Brewery site. Both projects emphasize energy efficiency in their designs.
6Self-renewing mushroom dress innovation
Chinese researchers developed a self-repairing dress made from living mycelium. The biological material aims to extend clothing lifespan. Separately, Tan France launched an 18-piece furniture collection with Singapore's Castlery. Sustainable material research is gaining momentum in design circles.
7Notable projects of the week
SBP and Snøhetta's cantilever bridge in New York, River Architects' Passivhaus in Hudson Valley, and PCA-Stream's copper-clad concert hall in Evian stood out this week. Dezeen readers highlighted these projects among most shared content. Each showcases innovative materials and construction techniques.
8Debate over architectural preservation
The Rike Hall and Mackintosh Building cases reignited discussions about preserving modern architectural heritage. Experts question the balance between cultural value and urban redevelopment. They emphasize including public participation and expert opinions in demolition decisions. These debates may influence global architectural conservation policies.