Batumi Chess Palace

Alpha Architecture is proud to announce its selection as the winner of the design competition for the Batumi Chess Palace. This landmark project harmonizes the intellectual rigor of chess with sustainable, modern architecture, creating a vibrant hub for players and the local community alike.

The design draws its soul from the game’s core identity. By translating the logic of the chessboard into physical space, the building becomes a living tribute to the Game of Kings.

The facade is inspired by an unfolded chessboard, wrapped in perforated solar shades. This black-and-white rhythmic pattern is a modern interpretation of the board while providing essential climate control. The volume is meticulously adapted to the local landscape.

Welcoming visitors at the main entrance is a large-scale bronze sculptural installation of a Rook (Chariot). This striking accent breaks the facade’s symmetry and serves as a powerful symbol of the building’s purpose.

The roof is divided into a modular grid mimicking a chessboard, alternating between green roof modules for biodiversity and solar panel modules for energy independence. A glass-enclosed winter garden creates a light-filled atrium at the center.

The palace accommodates international grandmaster tournaments and local youth training with two 600 sq m tournament halls, eight study rooms, administrative suites, medical rooms, a conference room, chess library, exhibition space, on-site food facilities, a sports shop, fifteen hotel rooms, and a private gym.

The project was named A’ Design Award winner for 2024/2025 in the Building and Structure Design category.