Batumi Tower
The Batumi Tower, also known as the Batumi Technological University Tower, is a skyscraper in Batumi, Georgia. Standing at, it is currently the List of [tallest buildings in Georgia (country)|second-tallest building] in Georgia, after the Alliance Centropolis A, which reached upon topping out. The skyscraper is primarily constructed of concrete and uniquely features a ferris wheel embedded within its structure. Designed in the modernist style by Metal Yapi, construction was completed in 2012. Upon its completion, it was the tallest building in the Caucasus region until 2015, when it was surpassed by the SOCAR Tower in Baku, Azerbaijan, which stands tall.
History
Construction of the tower was supported by Mikheil Saakashvili, who presided over the groundbreaking ceremony. The building was completed in 2012 but remained unoccupied for two years. In 2015, it was put up for auction, amid speculation that it would be renovated and converted into a hotel. As of 2024, renovations are still ongoing, although several floors have already been completed.Design
The tower features a modernist design and is particularly unique for the ferris wheel embedded in its facade at the 330-foot mark, positioned in one corner of the building. The windows are arranged in vertical, randomly alternating stripes, while a diagonal concrete line separates different sections of the facade, adding visual interest and emphasizing the building’s geometric design.The shape of the tower has been compared to the Transamerica Pyramid, featuring a similarly sloped, pyramid-like design. The structure rises from two adjacent multi-story buildings, which serve as the tower’s lobby. The entire complex spans two addresses and includes an above-ground parking lot.
Both adjoining buildings in the complex share a similar design, featuring white concrete and blue glass facades. The smaller of the two includes a futuristic awning that functions as a valet area, while the taller building serves as a secondary office space.