If you’ve been following the pulse of the city, you may already know: Telegraph is the first and only property in the Caucasus to join the world’s most prestigious hotel collection – Leading Hotels of The World (LHW). This status firmly positions Telegraph among the global elite of hospitality. But what exactly makes it a new symbol of luxury living?
History
All great stories begin with history – so let us briefly revisit the not-so- distant past. In 1966, architect Lado Alexi-Meskhishvili was commissioned to design the new Central Post and Telegraph building. At the time, the complete redevelopment of Rustaveli Avenue was under discussion – and the architect was given rare creative freedom. Although he drafted three different façade designs, the project’s scale and concept would ultimately transform. Alexi-Meskhishvili – who famously viewed architecture as a space of freedom, not an instrument of authority or mere functionality – sought to create a building that would stand in quiet contrast to Soviet urbanism. In 1980, the new Central Post and Telegraph headquarters, co-designed with Teimuraz Mikashavidze, was completed. The multi-storey structure was sensitively adapted to the site’s sloped topography – its terraced sidewalks and stairways following the natural gradient. Two striking rectangular atriums brought natural light deep into the interior, creating a monumental presence that reflected both historical legacy and the promise of Tbilisi’s urban future.
Architectural Identity
From the very beginning, Telegraph’s architecture carried a distinct identity – and it continues to do so today. The building’s refined visual rhythm, expressed through vertical pilasters and generous glass panels, conveys both height and modern elegance. Monumental cornices and segmented atriums shape the internal flow and visual balance. The façade’s textured stone surfaces and warm palette harmonise beautifully with the character of the city. Telegraph’s form gracefully integrates with Tbilisi’s sloping landscape: the building adapts to the geological layers and urban gradient, evidenced by the diversity of its entrances – accessible to both vehicles and pedestrians. Terraced entrances guide guests towards the vestibule. Inside, a series of open courtyards and architecturally sunken public areas offer spaces with distinct identity – adding yet another layer of uniqueness to Telegraph.
The Neri & Hu Signature: A Conceptual Interior
IfTelegraph’sexterior is a bold architectural statement, its interior leaves an equally lasting impression. The design was crafted by the globally renowned Neri & Hu Studio, based in Shanghai – a team for whom design is not simply aesthetic, but a narrative rooted in historical context. For this project, Neri & Hu embraced local materials: dark wood panelling, stone surfaces, soft fabrics, and carefully modulated lighting – all enhancing the building’s identity and authenticity. Within Telegraph, public spaces – lobby, bar, restaurants, conference halls – serve as more than functional areas. They become arenas of conversation and connection; where lighting evolves with the day, textures reveal subtle depth, and a warm, neutral palette invites guests into a world of tranquility and understated luxury. This collaboration with Neri & Hu affirms Telegraph’s well-earned place among the world’s finest hotels – not just through exceptional service, but through a distinctive concept and visual language.
Multifunctionality
Telegraph doesnot seek to separate business from leisure. Instead, it creates a seamless world where work and relaxation coexist; where business, creativity, and informal encounters flow naturally. 239 high-end rooms, nine individually designed restaurants, a bar, jazz club, and multi-purpose event and conference spaces – all housed under one roof. Ballroom & Meeting Spaces: designed with acoustic and visual isolation, these spaces ensure privacy and optimal sound control – perfectly suited for formal meetings, creative sessions, parties, presentations, briefings, and workshops. Here, the interior strikes a refined balance between formality and contemporary elegance. Tatuza Jazz Club: an acoustic pavilion where music and space merge in perfect harmony. The club’s concept blends light, design, and materiality, creating an atmosphere that is both captivating and immersive. Wine Library: a hybrid space where literature meets wine. In collaboration with Tsinandali Estate, the library presents a curated wine selection alongside books. Here, the love of fine wine and literature finds a natural meeting point – offering a truly sensory experience where tradition and taste converge.
Today, Telegraph stands as a new icon of luxury living – an inseparable part of Tbilisi’s modern identity. As a proud member of Leading Hotels of The World (LHW), it offers guests not merely relaxation, but an experience of depth, beauty, and lasting emotion.
TEXT: TATULI GVINIANIDZE
