The Tbilisi Urban Forest (Narikala Ridge Forest) project, which aims to restore and enhance the biodiversity of the city’s green lung, has been selected as one of the 40 finalists for the 2024 EU Prize for Contemporary Architecture/Mies van der Rohe Award. The prestigious award, given every two years, recognizes and commends excellence and innovation in the field of architecture in Europe.
A New Approach to Afforestation
The Tbilisi Urban Forest project, initiated by the city of Tbilisi in 2020, is a response to the environmental and social challenges posed by the ageing and dying pine plantations that cover the Narikala Ridge, a prominent hill in the center of the capital. The pine monocultures were planted in the mid-20th century by Soviet biologists to reduce erosion and cool the city, but they have become susceptible to pests and fungi, posing a fire hazard and public safety risk.
The project proposes a new approach to afforestation that combines ecology, technology and aesthetics. It involves repopulating the ridge with a biodiverse palette of endemic and climate-adapted species, creating a resilient and diverse urban forest that can provide multiple ecosystem services and recreational opportunities for the citizens. The project also employs digital tools and sensors to monitor the growth and health of the trees, as well as to engage the public in the forest’s evolution.
A Recognition of the Shared Culture of Architecture
The Tbilisi Urban Forest project is the only work from Georgia among the 40 finalists, which were shortlisted from 362 nominations from 20 different countries by the EUmies Award jury. The jury, composed of renowned architects and experts, praised the project for its ambition, innovation and public interest.
The EUmies Award, established in 1987, is one of the most prestigious and influential architectural prizes in the world. It is organized by the European Commission and the Fundació Mies van der Rohe, and supported by the Creative Europe programme. The award aims to highlight the shared culture of architecture throughout Europe, and to foster dialogue and exchange among architects, clients, policy-makers and the public.
The jury will announce the five finalists in February, after visiting the 40 shortlisted works. The winners of the Architecture Prize and the Emerging Architecture Prize will be announced in April, and the awards ceremony will take place in May at the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion in Barcelona. The winners will receive €60,000 and €30,000 respectively, as well as a sculpture recognizing their essential contributions to contemporary architecture.
A Milestone for Georgian Architecture
The Tbilisi Urban Forest project is not only a significant achievement for the city of Tbilisi and its inhabitants, but also a milestone for Georgian architecture and its international recognition. The project showcases the creativity, talent and vision of Georgian architects, who have been working to create sustainable and innovative solutions for the urban and social challenges of the country.
The project is also a testament to the collaboration and support of various stakeholders, including the city of Tbilisi, the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture, the National Botanical Garden, the Georgian National Academy of Sciences, the Ilia State University, the Georgian National Museum, and the local communities. The project is also financed by the European Investment Bank, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank.
The Tbilisi Urban Forest project is a source of pride and inspiration for Georgia, and a hopeful sign of a greener and more livable future for its capital.
