The Soviet-Era Building That Became a Multi-Award-Winning Luxury Hospitality Destination in Modern Armenia: An Interview with Syuzanna Tovmasyan

Once a Soviet-era hospitality icon, the historic DVIN Hotel has undergone one of
the most ambitious transformations in modern Armenia. Now reborn as the Seven
Visions Dvin Hotel, the project has already earned global acclaim for its fusion of
heritage, luxury, and cutting-edge innovation. Through the leadership of
Syuzanna Tovmasyan and the visionary design work of Elena Krylova’s studio, the
former Soviet-era DVIN Hotel has been transformed into a world-class
destination—a symbol of modern Armenia’s capabilities and cultural pride.
Today, the Seven Visions Dvin Hotel stands as both a tribute to Yerevan’s past and
a shining example of its future: innovative, luxurious, culturally grounded, and
globally admired. We sat down with Ms. Syuzanna Tovmasyan, Artistic Director
of the Dvin Hotel Complex, to uncover the creative vision behind this ultra
transformative evolution.

Rita Davtyan: Ms. Tovmasyan, the Dvin Hotel has a long and storied history,
starting from soviet era. How did the redesign approach honoring its past
while creating something undeniably modern?

Syuzanna Tovmasyan:
“The original DVIN building is deeply rooted in Yerevan’s urban and
cultural history. Its value lies not only in its architecture, but in its
setting—situated among streets unchanged since the 18th century.
Preserving this heritage was essential. Our team meticulously restored
elements of the historic hotel and integrated them into the new design.
This ensures that the Seven Visions Dvin Hotel carries a tangible
connection to its past, even as it embraces a new era of luxury.”

Rita Davtyan: The interior design is frequently praised for combining ethnic
Armenian motifs with contemporary luxury. How intentional was this blend?
Tovmasyan:

“Very intentional. Armenian culture is rich with symbolism,
craftsmanship, and visual identity. We wanted to respect this heritage
without turning the hotel into a museum. Instead, we incorporated ethnic
elements into a state-of-the-art aesthetic—modern forms, advanced
materials, luxurious textures. The result is a harmonious blend that feels
both authentic and internationally relevant.”

Rita Davtyan: The Dvin Hotel is now considered a benchmark for luxury
hospitality design. What do you believe gives it this global appeal?
Tovmasyan:

“It’s the combination of vision, technology, and true functionality. Every
square meter of the hotel is designed with purpose. We follow a principle
known as SMART LUX—a philosophy that merges modern functionality
with high aesthetics and advanced technology. Guests should feel that they
are in a sophisticated, multifunctional environment where every detail has
been carefully thought through, from the lighting to the flow of space.”
Rita Davtyan: One of the most celebrated parts of the complex is the Dvin
Music Hall, which has already won multiple international awards and
welcomed world renowned artists. What makes it so special?
Tovmasyan:

To create a truly one-of-a-kind experience, authenticity is essential. In the
hotel industry, this can emerge from a distinctive and carefully crafted
design concept, or from experiential activities that foster cultural
connection or immersion in nature. It is about going beyond the ordinary,
embracing originality, and staying ahead of the curve to deliver
remarkable and unforgettable experiences for guests. This philosophy
guides my work and defines my core responsibilities as the Artistic
Director of The Dvin.

In this context “The Dvin Music Hall is one of my proudest achievements.
It’s a multifunctional space designed in a modern art-deco style. The hall
is a true transformer—equipped with advanced Yamaha mixing consoles, a
state-of-the-art acoustic system, and a massive fine-resolution LED stage
screen with additional duplicating screens.

It also includes built-in 3D mapping capabilities and custom-made
decorative 3D panels. These features helped the hall earn the Silver
Medal for ‘World’s Best Innovations’ at the DSE APEX-2019 exhibition
in Las Vegas. This recognition placed Armenia on the global stage for
innovation in audio-visual design.”

Rita Davtyan: Elena Krylova and her studio played a major role in interior
design. How would you describe this collaboration?
Tovmasyan:

“Elena and her team brought exceptional expertise. They participate
actively in global exhibitions and forums, exchanging ideas with leading
figures in hospitality and design. This global outlook helped ensure that
the Dvin Hotel didn’t just meet world standards—it set new ones.
In my opinion The Seven Visions Dvin Hotel is proof of what can be
achieved when artistic direction and design talent work in complete
synergy.”

Rita Davtyan: Looking ahead, what can we expect next from the Dvin Hotel
Complex and your artistic direction?
Tovmasyan:

“Our team continues to work on several new high-profile projects,
including additional five-star developments in Yerevan. The Dvin Hotel is
not only a revitalized landmark—it is the beginning of a new era for
Armenian hospitality.

Our goal is to elevate Armenia onto the global luxury map, showcasing
what our country can achieve when heritage, creativity, and innovation
come together.”

 Rita Davtyan