Non-Places of the Cities: Dialogue between Prague and Tbilisi

The first part of the event will be devoted to the lecture by the Prague-based architect, urbanist, and writer Anna Beata Háblová. She will share her perspective about marginal spaces in towns: neglected, transitory, and overlooked places, i.e., "non-places" – not only in the sense of Marc Augé but simply as everything in contrast with an intelligibly defined public space.

"Non-places exist for various reasons: an ill-conceived development, an impractical location, or interventions in the landscape. Although they are irritating and repellent, they can also be a place to escape the predictability of the public space. Are non-places a part of the natural development of cities and a necessity in the era of flows and networks, or on the contrary, are they a result of our failure and helplessness?"

                                                              Anna Beata Háblová

Following the lecture, Tbilisi-based urban planner Elena Darjania will lead a roundtable discussion with architect David Giorgadze. Together, they will explore the spectrum of Tbilisi's urban landscape, examining the city's array of non-places, public spaces, and the areas that blur the lines between them. The conversation will address the reasons behind the spread of non-places in Tbilisi and draw insights from recent public space renovations, such as the transformation of Gudiashvili Square in the historic city center and the rehabilitation of the Mziuri Park along the Vere River valley — both projects led by architect David Giorgadze.

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