Shuamta Gateway Master Plan : Ruderal

The Shuamta Gateway landscape is situated between the Gombori Pass and the Alazani Valley. The site of two historic monasteries, the area features thick Beech forests, expansive dry river washes, and stunning views of the greater Caucasus mountains.

Ruderal developed a master plan for the restaurant and surroundings that include outdoor dining and event spaces. The new Shuamta Hub features tourist services, gathering areas, and access to an interpretive trail system. The project is funded by the USAID Economic Security Program, in partnership with the Alaverdi Eparchy and the Badagoni Wine Company

Link to an article about integrating open-source tools to map tourist trails in Shuamta.

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The Salt Mountain Disturbance

The Salt Mountain Disturbance, exhibited at Artisterium in Tbilisi, drew from field research on the vegetation and substrates of a salt stockpile site in Columbus. Through subtle grading changes and vegetation management, Salt Mountain converts what was a hazardous surplus—road salt—and channels it into a striking urban landscape of mineral gradients and salt-tolerant ruderal species.

Betania Forest Garden

Spliced into former hillside pastureland, the Betania Forest Garden is a “living diagram” and an ongoing experiment in adaptive forestry and meadow management practices. The garden is located in the village of Betania, which is 1000 meters above and 19 kilometers from the Georgian capital of Tbilisi in the climate resort area of Korjori, known for its healing forests and clean, cool air. The garden is a mediator between the domestic and the wild, with a simple stairway and forest planting bridging from the home to and leading into the Kojori forestlands and beyond.