In the forests outside Borjomi stands an extraordinary remnant of Georgia’s Soviet cultural history: the former House of Creativity of the Composers’ Union. It was not built as an ordinary hotel or sanatorium, but as a place where composers and musicians could stay, work and meet away from the cities.

The complex dates from the 1970s. Georgian archival sources attribute the 1975 project to architect Shalva Davitashvili, who led the architectural team responsible for the creative house of the Georgian Composers’ Union in Borjomi.

The building reflects the monumental Soviet modernism of that period. A large accommodation block rises above the surrounding forest, with deep concrete balconies extending around the façades. Inside, one of its most striking features is the enormous central hall. Sweeping staircases cross the open space between the different floors, while a circular fountain or water feature forms the centre of the hall. Wooden balustrades and decorative details soften the otherwise massive concrete construction.

The Composers’ House was much more than a holiday residence. Music was at the heart of the complex. It contained facilities for meetings and performances, including a large concert hall. The building was also used for international musical and academic events. In November 1986, for example, the second international conference on Problems of Folk Polyphony was held here. Researchers attended lectures during the day, while Georgian ensembles performed traditional polyphonic music in the evenings.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the circumstances that had supported institutions such as this disappeared. The complex eventually lost its original function and fell into decline. For years the once prestigious building stood largely unused, leaving its halls, staircases and accommodation areas exposed to deterioration.

Despite its neglected appearance, the building was not forgotten. The historic Composers’ House is now recognised as a protected cultural heritage site. Modern redevelopment plans therefore focus on preserving the historic structure rather than simply demolishing it.

The site is currently part of the planned Composers Resort Borjomi development. The project covers more than ten hectares and is intended to combine the old Composers’ House with a new hotel, residences, spa and recreational facilities. The historic concert hall is also intended to retain a musical function. Current plans describe a concert venue for around 600 guests, while the historic main building is planned to become part of a 65-room Radisson Collection hotel