Steeped in history, the homestead for the descendants of Georgia’s Bagrationi family has opened after years of renovation. Chateau Mukhrani, known for its popular brand of wines, opened its doors for hospitality and events in a ribbon-cutting ceremony that showcased the site’s decor. With both a dining and event space, the interior is decorated to elicit the former grandeur of this palatial estate.
Designed in 1873 for Ivane Mukhranbatoni, one of the biggest Georgian landowners of that time and a modernizer of the winemaking industry, its construction took over 12 years. Much of its design and inspiration came from the Chateau of Versailles in France. This vision is reinvigorated by the renowned designer Juan Pablo Molyneux.
Intimate meeting spaces allow for a professional yet decorative environment for colleagues and friends
Known for his classic style, Molyneux is a Chilean-born American interior designer that has worked for many private residences across Europe and North America.
With two books published on his work and earning the Knight in the Order of Arts and Letters from the French government, his expertise is visible in chateau’s interior. The history, the legacy, of the estate is captured in its details.
The ribbon-cutting acted as a capstone to the public and private activities that elated the chateau to its former glory. With investor Frederik Paulsen, designer Juan Pablo Molyneux, and Vice Prime Minister Levan Davitashvili, the opening ceremony paved the way for a tour of its renovated rooms. Each room captures a piece of Georgian history and design.
The entrance opens into three sections of the palace. The left takes the visitor into the dining section of the estate, complete with a glass wall that allows an unobstructed view into the masterful chef’s work. The essence of palatial living with ornate furniture and decor brings one back to the 19th century during the Belle Époque.
With its restoration, the chateau is likely to become a center for cultural, historical, and winemaking work for generations to come
To the front is an immense event space that allows visitors views of the palace gardens. Walls adorned with classical artwork and a ceiling that is complemented with elegant chandeliers greet guests. Its artistic style brings an aesthetic of elevated culture and history of the location only captured in its ornate design.
To the right, upon entrance, is a study and small bar, welcoming guests that prefer a more private and reserved space. Decorated with beautiful works of art depicting the former residents, the military accomplishments of the Bagrationi family, and the patriarch Prince Ivane Bagrationi of Mukhrani, it preserves the history of the palace. Intimate meeting spaces allow for a professional yet decorative environment for colleagues and friends.
The second floor of the palace displays the multicultural aspect of the estate. With inspirations from the old Georgian tea houses, the western Black Sea coast, and the warmth of the country’s summer atmosphere, the space opens for guests to rest in its arms. Its large windows invite sunlight and warmth for visitors to bask in while still providing a comfortable space for meetings. Once again, the property offers comfort with functionality to its hosts and guests alike.
The palace, keeping in its tradition of luxury, opulence, and extravagant decor, maintains its connection to the history of the estate. Its warmth, intimacy, and repertoire invite those that seek something exclusive for guests, away from the mechanisms of urban life. With its restoration, the chateau is likely to become a center for cultural, historical, and winemaking work for generations to come.
By Michael Godwin
