Sevan Writers House

A little bit of history Perched on the shores of Lake Sevan, the Sevan Writers’ Rest House is one of the brightest examples of Soviet modernist architecture. The complex consists of two buildings — the Residence Hall and the Lounge Building — built at different times. The first plans for the Residence Hall date to 1932, and archival records show it was completed in 1935. The Great Purge did not spare its architects. In 1937, Kochar and Mazmanian were arrested at their workplace. Mazmanian was rehabilitated in 1954, and Kochar returned to Yerevan only in 1960, later becoming Chief Architect at the Yerevanproject Institute. Both eventually rejoined the architectural scene of the post-Stalinist era. In 1963, Kochar was tasked with redesigning and expanding the Sevan Resort. His project added an extra floor to the Residence Hall, creating a wide terrace that continued the original concept seamlessly. During the resort's reconstruction, Kochar also designed and built the new Lounge Building. Stylistically, the new building contrasted with the Residence Hall, but both of them formed a harmonious ensemble in combination with the natural landscape and incorporated the view of the medieval architecture of Sevan Monastery churches on the top of the peninsula. After the reconstruction, the Lounge and the Residence Hall of Sevan Writers House became one of the most iconic buildings of post-Stalin modernist Soviet Architecture. My thoughts Before visiting this place, there are a few things you should know. The complex is closed during the non-touristic season, roughly from November to April. That said, even when it’s closed, I strongly recommend stopping by—the exterior alone is worth the visit. It is one of the most iconic Soviet-era modernist buildings, not only in Armenia but across the post-Soviet space. When the complex is open, visitors can see the interior, including the restaurant hall. However, keep in mind that the management does not treat the site as a museum, and the manager is often not very enthusiastic about people visiting only to look around. For this reason, during my tours I always encourage clients to at least stop for a coffee to feel the atmosphere. The fish barbecue, made from fish from nearby Lake Sevan, is also good. Those considering an overnight stay should know that the complex has not been renovated for decades. Do not expect modern comfort or good value for the price. People stay here for the vibe, atmosphere, and history, not for luxury. In my case, during architecture and urbex tours, I always include this place...

Sevan Writers' House is a unique and striking piece of brutalist architecture set between Sevanavank Monastery and Lake Sevan. (And with unimpeded views of the lake and hills behind it). I loved it! Yes, the place has fallen into disrepair and the rooms need overhauling - but for location, the views and enjoying a slice of brutalist architecture, it's on its own. It also enjoys quiet as it's not right in the lakeside ***** with the bars and resorts. Sevan Writers' House was designed and created by architects Kochar and Mazmanyan in the 1930s (later sent to Siberia) and remains substantively unchanged from its creation in the Soviet era. (Including the rooms and furnishings...). It's difficult to describe. Suffice it to say that Sevan Writers' House consists of two parts: 1) a large circular breakfast/dining/writing room, with floor to ceiling windows looking out to the sea, set on a concrete pillar; and 2) the hotel part, with all rooms having access to a balcony and unimpeded views of the lake. If you love quirky brutalist architecture and lake views and aren't too fussed about the state of the rooms themselves, you will love this place. If you judge a hotel by the quality of its accommodation (or don't want to walk up multiple flights of stairs), then Sevan Writers House won't be for you. Breakfast is available for 2,000 AMD (eggs, bread, cheese, tomato, cucumber, croissant, tea/coffee). As is dinner - I had a whole barbecued trout, salad, bread and sparkling water for AMD 4,000. Hopefully the attached pictures will give a better flavour than this long review!

Like most visitors, I came to the Writers House for reasons related to the history and architecture of the place. I did not stay overnight at the hostel, but the lunch (fish) I had there was tasty and very reasonably priced. Above all, the lady who served me was very friendly.