The Funicular on Mtatsminda Hill overlooks Tblisi in Georgia. The carefully restored 1930s building incorporates three restaurants, a cocktail bar, conference and banqueting facilities. designLSM were commissioned to design the interiors for the entire development. The client’s vision was to create a destination venue to attract a broad range of visitors to this stunning location, accessible only by a restored funicular railway.

Following exploratory site visits to the then sadly dilapidated building, our restaurant interior design team were very excited to work on the concept to transform this much loved historic city landmark. The building’s facades and many original features have been carefully preserved, while the interiors were rebuilt to the highest standards, with old and new sitting alongside each other throughout the interior.

Chela restaurant specialises in the highest quality meat dishes. The Funicular Restaurant offers classic Georgian dishes with a twist. Puri Guliani is a dream come true for lovers of pastries and breads, including every kind of Khachapuri. The Lounge Bar offers sophisticated cocktails in a glamorous setting, with restored mid-century frescoes inside and an amazing view from the terrace across the city of Tblisi.
Awards: International Design and Architecture Awards 2014, ‘Best Bar’ Shortlist