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Sliema | Malta
STATUS Complete | 2021
SCALE 370m2
SERVICE Architecture | Interior Design | Project Management
Whilst we were very aligned to retaining the old features and introducing some newer ones, this posed quite a challenge, particularly to ensure the correct renovation and restoration of services which needed to be done from scratch. Keeping these old features required that all was bypassed through the walls and ceiling.
We were brave and took some calculated risks to achieve a happy medium between the old original features and new modern elements. Whilst we did not shy away from bold colours, we balanced this out with light wood furnishings which provide for a serene marriage of old and new.
The project included the adding of an extension, several alterations, as well as a full house renovation. The abandoned Sliema property had two floors, yet we were briefed to include another floor. The client was keen to keep some old features such as the old cement tiles, quaint banister as well as the apertures which we restored. Whilst retaining the soul of the property, he wanted to usher it into the present day, so we sought to give it a modern twist.
Structural alternations were carried out, especially since the house lacked natural light. An example is the knocking down of an old doorway which was replaced by a four metre wide opening, welcoming in more light.
Particular attention was drawn to create a balance between old and new, and to ensure that no element overpowers another. We used the old characteristics as our basis. For instance, a navy-blue wall was painted to complement the tile on the floor – enabling each element to stand out in its own right. The property afforded a mix of dark colours on the walls, thanks to its high ceilings, yet this was counteracted with light wood furnishings for balance.
Functional elements, such as a built-in workstation served the requirements of every-day life and supports the clients as they work from home. We also enlarged all existing bathrooms, making room for more luxurious living. The outdoor area on the ground floor featuring elegant decking, caters for the client’s passion for plants.
All existing apertures including internal doors were fully restored. Considering the layout, these internal doors served the purpose of segregating each space from the next. In every existing room, the original Maltese cement tiling was also retained and fully restored, while more contemporary materials were introduced in the extension. All such features elevated the property’s elegance while creating a delicate balance between the old and the new.
Each floor is split in two with a central stairway lacing through each level. The roof is also split, with one side featuring fixed concrete seating with planters, as well as a fire pit. The other side of the roof enjoys a cosy dining area and outdoor kitchen with spectacular views.
