Tbilisi-based TIMM Architecture breathes new life into an aging attic, transforming it into the so-called Birdsnest House, a bright and contemporary apartment. The project offers its residents scenic vistas across the old town on one side and framed mountain views on the other. Located in the Mtatsminda district, an historic area of Georgia‘s capital city near the funicular’s lower station, Birdsnest House occupies the top floor of a 19th-century building. The owner is a descendant of one of the building’s original residents, and took a particular interest in preserving the construction details that tell the story of the structure’s evolution within the surrounding area.
The postcard views from the Birdsnest House are described by the team at TIMM Architecture as being reminiscent of the paintings by Georgian artist Elene Akhvlediani. This 20th-century artist is known for capturing the essence of her homeland through her paintings of towns and cities, especially the unique architecture of Old Tbilisi. These artworks heavily influenced the apartment’s design concept, as the interiors serve as a minimalistic frame, highlighting the historic urban fabric outside. A window is artfully framed to suggest such a painting, and offers a panoramic view. A heated seating area below the window lends a warm and inviting atmosphere, embodying the Scandinavian concept of ‘Hygge’ — a feeling of coziness and comfort.
▲ 设计师在入口处采用穿孔钢板材质,并将楼梯与休闲区结合起来设计
a perforated steel wall welcomes guests and integrates the staircase into the living area
Organizing the new Birdsnest House, TIMM Architecture pides the space into three distinct zones — the entryway, the living room, and the dining room, each with its own atmosphere. One of the key design challenges for TIMM Architecture involved integrating the staircase leading to the living area. The architects resolved this challenge by installing a suspended perforated steel wall. Visually inviting, this element welcomes guests to ascend while maintaining a sense of openness and transparency.
Meanwhile, in a departure from traditional layouts, the living room serves as a secondary space for casual recreation rather than the primary living area. This deliberate design choice highlights instead the importance of the dining area, which takes center stage in the apartment. This dining area is the core of Birdsnest House. The team celebrates detailed wood craftsmanship, which is evident in both the finishes and custom furniture, including a table by TIMM Architecture.
▲ 该住宅是由19世纪建筑的阁楼改造而来,位于Mtatsminda区
sited in the Mtatsminda district, the apartment occupies the top floor of a 19th-century building
▲ 房主曾经居住于此,因此要求改造后的建筑仍需保留历史建筑的特点
the owner, a descendant of original residents, requested the preservation of historic details
▲ 改造后的阁楼保留了历史建筑的特色,使用者还能看到窗外的山脉景色
the Birdsnest House offers stunning views of the historic town and majestic mountains
▲ 该公寓功能较为齐全,有入口停留区、生活娱乐区和用餐区
the apartment is organized with distinct zones for entry, living, and dining
▲ 餐厅采用的是木质材饰面和定制家具,营造温馨氛围
detailed wood finishes and custom furniture create a warm, inviting dining space
▲ 为了强调餐厅的重要性,客厅和餐厅分开设计,餐厅为主要的活动区
a living room is designed for casual use to emphasize importance of the dining area