Style on Sunday Issue 39

ISSUE 39 • JUNE 2018

Architecture Takes Centre Stage

Heritage Award-Winners

FIGHTING FOR SURVIVAL Our Eco-Warriors

Colours in Contrast Bold Summer Fashion

Starting Our Family

ON SUNDAY

14 STYLE CONTENTS

contents 61 Style Interview

Style Living

19 Starting Our Family in Malta Model couple David and Leah Camenzuli share their baby news.

79 Style Checklist The news you simply must know.

83 The Innovation of Nostalgia Experimenting with classic tastes.

26 Fighting for Survival The people on the frontline of the war to save our environment.

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89 Papped! In Style Style sees and is seen!

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49

David wears: Dolce & Gabbana shirt and pants Alpina Extreme Regatta Yatchtimer black rubber strap watch, ¤1,379 Leah wears: Dolce & Gabbana dress Silver ring, gold colour, with pink stone, ¤67, by GABA Photography: Kris Micallef Styling: Sarah Micallef Make-up: Chris Attard for Franks, using Guerlain Hair: Dean Gera at Dean Gera Salons Clothing: Sarto, St Julian’s Jewellery: GABA Iklin

Style Heritage 61 Architecture Takes Centre Stage Meet this year’s winners of the Din L-Art Ħelwa Awards.

Style Fashion

Style Beauty

Style Home

33 Colours in Contrast Making summer a canvas for colour.

49 Terracotta Brights The summer beauty look to take you from day to night.

73 Summer Update Three top designers choose their key seasonal trends.

PUBLISHERS Content House Group Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel BKR3000 T: 2132 0713 info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt

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Editor Jo Caruana editor@styleonsunday.com VISUAL EDITOR Sarah Micallef LAYOUT DESIGN Ramon Micallef ram@box-design.net Photography Alan Carville, Tonio Lombardi, Kris Micallef, Bernard Polidano Contributors Chris Attard, Terry Attard, Iggy Fenech, Dean Gera, Marie-Claire Grima, Stefan Hogan, Mark McBride, Sarah Micallef, Becky Vella, Jonathan Zammit Advertising Content House Ltd Advertising SALES MANAGERS Matthew Spiteri, Diane Scerri Advertising SALES coordinator Marvic Cutajar Printing Progress Press Ltd Distribution Style on Sunday is distributed for free with The Sunday Times.

Style on Sunday is a quarterly high-end magazine which epitomises quality lifestyle and refined living. This issue covers the period June – September 2018.

The themes and personalities featured are observed from the ‘Style’ perspective: elegant, inspiring, exquisite. Style on Sunday is meant to stir the desires of men and women, catering for their pleasures and needs. www.styleonsunday.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means: mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of Content House Group. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in the publication, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors it may contain.

16 STYLE EDITORIAL

editor’s

Also championing action this issue are the award-winning architects behind our heritage feature on page 61. They have each taken “Few will have the greatness to projects that may have seemed bend history itself, but each of us overwhelming or impossible to can work to change a small portion of events.” – Robert F. Kennedy complete at the outset, but comadmire people who are deterplete them they did and the results mined to make a difference. are phenomenal. These are ‘deNothing angers me more than velopments’ Malta can be proud having to listen to those hell bent of, and I look forward to more of on complaining about all the them.

Photo by Kris Micallef Hair by Reece Davison at Dean Gera Salons things that bother them, but who Of course in this edition of the Make-up by Chris Attard for Franks, using Guerlain somehow refuse to actually get up magazine there is much more and do anything about them. beauty to celebrate – from our deThankfully there are people who have been stirred lightful cover stars David and Leah Camenzuli (who into action – on the pitiful state of our environment, have chosen to share their wonderful baby news with for instance. We interview some of them – warriors us!), to our mesmerising new season fashion and gorof our time – in our group feature on page 26. They geous interior inspiration. are doers not talkers, and they have chosen to take on I hope you will enjoy turning the pages of Style as the responsibility for our shared actions because they we launch into another long summer – may there be believe in fighting to make a difference. I hope their plenty of relaxation in it for you, as well as plenty of stories and tips will engage us all; they need our help, action! and we owe it to them and our community.

LETTER

I

Follow Jo on Twitter at twitter.com/jocaruana and Style on Facebook by searching for Style on Sunday Magazine.

COMPETITION Win with Style! This issue, you could win the mysteriously alluring Issey Miyake’s Nuit d’Issey EDT 40ml and deo stick, worth €76.30. To enter, all you have to do is answer the following question: Which aspect of Style did you enjoy most this issue, and why?

Send your answers, as well as your telephone number, to win@styleonsunday.com or in writing to: Style on Sunday, Content House Group, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel BKR 3000.

Competition closes 1 October 2018.

One entry per person. Terms & Conditions apply. Last issue, David Borg Attard won Zadig&Voltaire’s This Is Her! EDT 50ml worth €70.15.

STYLE interview 19

Starting our

Family in Malta

David wears: DSQUARED2 sweatpants and t-shirt, by Sarto.

Leah wears: DSQUARED2 sweatshirt, by Sarto.

Having just returned to Malta from Dubai, model couple David and Leah Camenzuli have exciting news to share – they are preparing to welcome their first child. Here they chat exclusively to STYLE ON SUNDAY about their decision to move, and why Malta will make the perfect place to raise their family.

INTERVIEW: JO CARUANA PHOTOGRAPHY: KRIS MICALLEF STYLING: SARAH MICALLEF HAIR: DEAN GERA AT DEAN GERA SALONS MAKE-UP: CHRIS ATTARD FOR FRANKS USING GUERLAIN wardrobe: SARTO, ST JULIAN’S JEWELLERY & WATCHES: GABA IKLIN

20 STYLE interview

S

ometimes, you get to meet people at a truly exciting point in their lives.

Whether they are embarking on an adventure or making a choice for their future, I find it fascinating to share that time with them in some small way.

I am reminded of that as the Style team gathers around Leah and David Camenzuli in their new St Julian’s home. Just weeks after moving to Malta, their chic apartment has become a hive of activity as we style and snap away, capturing this: one of their milestone moments. Having travelled the world together, they have chosen to make Malta their home and their enthusiasm is palpable; this decision has been a long time coming, and it couldn’t have come a moment too soon.

“We are so happy to be here,” David tells me. “We often get asked why – after years of travelling and being based in Dubai – we wanted Malta to be home but, to be honest, it’s always been Malta. We love the island, and it’s as simple as that.”

But before we delve into that, let’s backtrack for a moment. After all, lots has happened since David – a 33-year-old half-Swedish, halfMaltese model – graced our Style cover a few years ago.

So what has he been up to? “Well, besides the fact that I’ve aged and added a few wrinkles… quite a lot! First and foremost, I married my best friend and recently found out we’re going to be parents,” David continues, smiling at Leah. “To say we’re thrilled is an understatement.”

Leah, meanwhile, explains how the couple first met – at 38,000 feet, while they were both working on a flight to San Francisco.

“We immediately had a connection,” she says, “and that only grew a year later when we bumped into one another again in a dingy Dubai nightclub called Rock Bottom. That day I was coming from an all-you-can-eat-and-drink brunch that gave me the liquid courage to barrel across the crowded dance floor to David, who, I found out later, was completely sober! From that night on, having been blown away by his very questionable dance moves, we were inseparable.”

So, three years later, David got down on one knee in Bali and asked Leah to be his wife. This led to a Balinese wedding one year after that, when they exchanged vows on 3 November 2016, overlooking an incredible sunset.

“Coming to this island I immediately felt at home – the people, the sea, the weather; it’s truly beautiful.”

Leah wears: Valentino top and trousers, by Sarto.

Dolce & Gabbana shoes, by Sarto.

GABA 18kt white gold bangle, ¤1,234, by GABA. GABA 18kt yellow gold bangle, ¤1,203, by GABA. GABA 18kt yellow gold earrings, ¤633, by GABA.

STYLE interview 23

“Leah and I are both doing what we love.

We are very grateful.”

David wears: Ermenegildo Zegna jacket, by Sarto.

Dolce & Gabbana shirt and trousers, by Sarto.

Citizen brown leather strap watch, limited edition, ¤750, by GABA.

Theirs really is a fairy-tale love story, but it didn’t stop there.

“Nothing could have prepared us for the ‘positive’ pregnancy test result we recently received, and later hearing our baby’s little heartbeat on the monitor for the first time,” says Leah, who was born and raised in Australia. “It really put things into perspective and underlined our decision to move to Malta. Coming to this island I immediately felt at home – the people, the sea, the weather; it’s truly beautiful.”

And while family comes first for the couple, there have also been new career moves to make. David recently signed a contract with local modelling agency Models M and launched full-time into the property management company he runs with his brother Daniel. Leah, a personal trainer, has been employed by popular fitness company Active Spirit. “We are both so grateful for all of these opportunities, as we’re doing what we love,” David says.

Another important part of the puzzle was designing their new home, and moving into it. They now describe it as the perfect representation of the two of them. “We both love minimalism and simplicity, and this house is exactly that. As Leonardo Da Vinci once said ‘simplicity is the utmost sophistication’.

I would say our home is very Scandinavian in style. It features lots of light, neutral tones, clean lines and natural materials such as wood, marble and glass. What we love most about our home is our doubleheight open-plan living area, which really maximises the sense of brightness and space.”

Of course, their home now has the added responsibility of being a family space, as the duo get ready to welcome ‘baby Camenzuli’ towards the end of the year. “Without sounding superficial, aside from a healthy baby, we’re so curious to see what our baby will look like because David and I are both such a mix,” Leah grins. “David and I have always spoken about becoming a family

and, to think it’s finally happening, is truly a blessing. Obviously our lives will be changing (less Netflix, less chilling!) but we couldn’t be more excited and ready for the ‘chaos’. At the moment we are mostly looking forward to finding out the sex of our little one and watching my belly grow. To be honest, all we know is that our lives will definitely change for the better.”

And, as the months roll on, both Leah and David say they plan to take things day by day.

“We very much enjoy living in the moment,” they agree. “But, if we had to pinpoint our hopes and expectations for the future, it would mainly be for us to be kind-hearted, happy, healthy and the best parents we can be.

“As for the two of us, we will just continue doing what we love and plan to spend as much quality time together before Camenzuli Junior arrives. This interim period between then and now is the perfect time to enjoy the wonderful family and friends (new friends included) who have welcomed us to Malta with open arms. We are so grateful,” they add. n

Our favourites

24 STYLE interview

Book L: The Pact by Jodi Picoult D: Men Without Women

by Ernest Hemingway Film L: Anchor Man D: Gladiator Drink L: Prosecco D: Coffee Season Both: Autumn, we don’t like it when it’s too hot or too cold Role Model L: Fitness blogger and mum Kelsey Wells D: Prince Harry (because he married Meghan Markle!)

Shopping Destination L: Australia D: Spain Must-Have Accessory L: Sunglasses D: Watch Place Both: Noosa on the Sunshine Coast in Australia; we’re both in love with it.

David wears: Ermenegildo Zegna suit, by Sarto.

Dolce & Gabbana shirt, shoes, cummerbund and bow-tie, by Sarto.

Leah wears: Alberta Ferretti dress, by Sarto.

Saint Laurent shoes, by Sarto.

GABA 18kt yellow gold earrings, ¤975, by GABA.

26 STYLE interview

Fighting for SURVIVAL As the war on the destruction of the environment rages on, STYLE ON SUNDAY speaks to six inspirational figures on the frontline.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRIS MICALLEF • INTERVIEWS BY IGGY FENECH

STYLE interview 27

CANE VELLA is the founder of Get Trashed Malta, a community that aims to inspire people on a national and an international level to be responsible consumers and to respect resources.

“Malta is experiencing economic prosperity at the expense of environmental destruction.”

GHISLAINE CALLEJA is an educational and campaigns officer at Din l-Art Ħelwa. Her time is spent rallying civil society – with particular focus on youth – to help safeguard our cultural and natural heritage.

“Despite the ever-increasing influx of foreigners and tourists in Malta, we still remain very insular in our mentality and there is almost nil compliance to, and enforcement of, the law. Because of this, our heritage is threatened by various factors: our desire for quick economic growth, the population explosion, the urban sprawl and trade expansion without master plans, the destruction of archaeological, historical and Natura 2000 sites, land use competition, and weakened policy regulations... Like it or not, Malta is experiencing economic In the first four prosperity at the expense of months of 2018, environmental destruction.

Did You Know?

89 applications “For this reason, more were received for focus needs to be given to residences in Outside education, and we need to foster of Development Zones a greater sense of community by (ODZ), further solidifying involving people in safeguarding recent statistics about our stunning islands. We increasing construction need to devise long-term, encroachment in sustainable strategies so that prime ODZ land. future generations can enjoy the natural world we are designed to live in and connect with.”

How To Help: • Write to Local Councils and the authorities to express your anger about such projects • Stay informed by reading the facts and protesting peacefully • Volunteer for an environmental or philanthropic cause and encourage others to do the same.

“Although it is one of the biggest threats the world It is estimated that faces, the impact of plastic between 4.8 and Did You Know? on the ecosystem and the 12.7 million tonnes food chain is understudied. of plastic entered Even so, the data we have the sea in 2010. points us towards a very dark place indeed. One big concern is with micro- and nano-plastics, which are invisible to the eye but which end up inside wildlife. The chemicals from these do not just kill them but also have the potential to enter food webs. As humans consume fish, this may be a potential threat to human health as well.

“Malta only segregates eight per cent of its plastic waste, with the rest supposedly going to a landfill. With some types of plastics taking up to 1,000 years to decompose, we have to use it sparingly until we find a new solution to the problem and the damage we are leaving for the next couple of generations to sort out.”

How to Help: • Use reusable cotton bags when shopping • Decline plastic bags and straws when offered them • Refuse to use plastics that can’t be recycled • Recycle plastics that can • Join clean-ups in your area.

“Malta only segregates eight per cent of its plastic waste.”

28 STYLE interview

JD FARRUGIA is the director of fish4tomorrow, an NGO that promotes sustainable fishing and the consumption of sustainable seafood.

“In 2016, people dropped off over 30,000 tonnes of refuse at Civic Amenity Sites here in Malta.”

MARTA KURZYNSKA is the brains and brawn behind STHfromNTH, an online and pop up-shop that reduces waste by upcycling pallets and old furniture.

“The amount of waste being generated by pervasive consumerism that is determined to produce items with a short lifespan is a huge part of the problem, but so is the lack of knowledge, interest, awareness and demand from the consumers’ side. In fact, I am always surprised by how easily people get rid of items that only need a bit of a revamp or simply to be fixed. Another shocking aspect is that people love wooden furniture but it is difficult for them to appreciate the beauty of wood in pallets.

“In 2016 alone, people dropped off over 30,000 tonnes of refuse at Civic Amenity Sites here in Malta. That is an insane amount and we need better In 2016, 17,000 education to make a proper tonnes of wood Did You difference. That’s why, as part Know? waste were dumped of STHfromNTH, I also in landfills – 340 organise upcycling workshops times more than in 2014. and take part in ‘repair cafés’ to inspire people to act.”

How to Help: • Try to repair anything that’s broken • Reuse and repurpose objects • Only buy products from sustainable businesses • Spread awareness.

“Overfishing occurs when you fish for certain species to the extent that you’re not giving the population enough time to regenerate, and it’s so pervasive that 80 per cent of the world’s fish stocks are now already fully- or over-fished.

That percentage goes up to 90 in the Mediterranean.

“More worryingly, Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing doesn’t only contribute to overfishing but also makes it harder for scientists to obtain a clear picture of the situation, which then makes it even more difficult to implement the right policies.

“In my time with fish4tomorrow I’ve learnt a lot about how large corporations (not just fishing operations) have enough resources and power to set up complex lobbying teams based in It is estimated that Brussels. They are there to anywhere between Did You ensure the EU regulations Know?

11 to 26 million that are passed work to the tonnes of fish are advantage of the big guys… caught via IUU fishing. sometimes at the expense of the local, small-scale fishermen.”

How to Help: • Eat local, seasonal and sustainable • Diversify the fish you eat • Check the labels to know where and how the seafood was caught • Use the Quick Fish Guide on the fish4tomorrow website.

“80 per cent of the world’s fish stocks are already fullyor over-fished.

That percentage goes up to 90 in the Mediterranean.”

STYLE interview 31

“Once the Għallis landfill is full (which will happen by the end of this year), it will cost Malta an extra €80 million a year to export its black bin bags.”

ANDREW SCHEMBRI is the chairman and co-founder of #Żibel, an NGO that has extracted over 48 tonnes of waste from the land and sea in the past 15 months alone.

“Waste is produced by people, but very few take responsibility for it. In fact, one of the things stopping us from solving this problem is public perception, because that influences the way people dispose of their waste. So, unless we begin to take a more mindful approach to the ways in which we live, we’ll always be fighting an up-hill battle against plastic, general waste, and hazardous and composite materials, among other things.

“Waste is a global issue that we all play a part in, so we can’t use Malta’s small size as an excuse to distance ourselves from it… Over here, we have no idea where 85 per cent of plastic ends up, while 25 per cent of our waste is food. We’re also one of the only handful of countries where garbage collection is paid for directly through our taxes. That’s not sustainable, particularly as people can throw out as many bags as they want to, without any regard for what’s in them, and without knowing the environmental and financial repercussions of their waste. That is costing the Maltese people a The current ratio of colossal amount of money plankton to plastic Did You every year… Indeed, once the Know? in the sea is two is to Għallis landfill is full (which one, meaning that will happen by the end of this when whales and other year), it is going to cost Malta marine life feed, one third an extra €80 million each year of their ‘food’ is plastic. to export our black bin bags.

How to Help: • Reduce the use of black bin bags – if you recycle properly, you should only need to fill one black bag every two weeks • Buy products that will last years, not minutes • Take note of how much waste you and your loved ones are generating, then work at reducing that amount.

STEVE ZAMMIT LUPI is the public relations officer for the Bicycle Advocacy Group, a committee that looks to empower cyclists while lobbying for better cycling infrastructure.

“Despite the negative perception people have of cycling (which is largely fuelled by the media), and the car culture that has been sold to us as the norm for decades, most people could easily cycle to work and for leisure… Especially when they realise how beneficial it is for their health and well-being, and the urban environment.

“There’s huge potential for bicycles to become the standard transport of choice in Malta, particularly as the average car trip is some 5km, and the majority of people live in the dense urban areas around the Grand Harbour region, making our towns closely interlinked. Unfortunately, year after year, project after project, under every Malta has one of administration and authority, Did You the highest road Know? the focus has always been density networks on accommodating more in the world, with and more cars, and we now some 2,500km of roads. add 33 new vehicles to our roads every single day.”

How to Help: • Get on two wheels, and give it a try • Write to the authorities to ask for safe and attractive cycling infrastructure • Walk whenever possible • When driving, check your mirrors for cyclists, give way and be patient. n

“33 new cars are added to our roads every single day.”

STYLE FASHION 33

ColoursinContrast STYLE ON SUNDAY heads to one of Malta’s oldest artistic institutions to experiment with the season’s most eye-catching hues.

PHOTOGRAPHY: BERNARD POLIDANO STYLING: IGGY FENECH HAIR: BECKY VELLA FOR DEAN GERA SALONS MAKE-UP: TERRY ATTARD FOR FRANKS, USING GUERLAIN MODEL: MADELEINE AT SUPERNOVA MODELS Shot on location at the Malta School of Art, Valletta.

Dress from Verve; bangle from Sunlab.

34 STYLE FASHION

Trousers and t-shirt from Oltre; earrings from Verve; bracelet and bangle from Sunlab; shoes from Darmanin Footwear.

STYLE FASHION 35

Blouse and skirt from LulĂš Boutique; necklace and sunglasses from Sunlab; bag from Furla.

36 STYLE FASHION

Dress and earrings from Verve; shoes from Darmanin Footwear; sunglasses from Sunlab.

STYLE FASHION 37

Blazer and trousers from Oltre; tank top from Verve; bracelet and sunglasses from Sunlab; bags from Furla.

Top and scarf from Betty Barclay at Mei Boutique; trousers from LulĂš Boutique; necklace from Oltre; sunglasses from Sunlab; shoes from Darmanin Footwear.

38 STYLE FASHION

Blouse and skirt from Betty Barclay at Mei Boutique; necklace and sunglasses from Sunlab; bag from Furla.

STYLE CULTURE 41

MPO closes its anniversary season with

A Night of French Music The closing of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra’s (MPO) 50th season will be celebrated with the music of Berlioz and Debussy.

B

erlioz le Fantastique, a concert celebrating 19thcentury French music – particularly that of Hector Berlioz – will be officially closing the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra’s 50th anniversary season on Friday, 22 June.

A huge, 100-strong orchestra will take the stage at the Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC) for this special concert, under the direction of French conductor Raoul Lay and featuring Maltese soprano Gillian Zammit.

The concert opener will be the work which paved the way for modern music: Claude Debussy’s ground-breaking Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune. The work is inspired by a poem by Stéphane Mallarmé, who was originally displeased with the idea of his poem being used as the basis for music, but who found himself deeply moved by Debussy’s work when he attended its premiere.

The work was eventually adapted into a short ballet choreographed by Vaslav Nijinsky, which proved to be controversial due to its overtly erotic subtext.

Following Debussy’s work, the orchestra will be performing two works by Berlioz, starting with his song cycle Les nuits d’été, a musical setting of six poems by Théophile Gautier, Berlioz’s neighbour and friend. The poems deal with the progression of love, starting from its blossoming at a time of youthful innocence, to the anguish at its loss, and ending with the hope of its final, eternal renewal.

The work was originally written for piano and voice – with arrangements for different male and female voices.

When Berlioz orchestrated the work, he specified different voices for the various songs, but it is usually sung by a single vocalist when performed.

The concert is brought to a close with one of Berlioz’s best-known compositions, his Symphonie fantastique.

An early example of a programme symphony, it tells the story of an artist who poisons himself with opium while despairing over unrequited love, and was inspired by the composer’s own infatuation with an Irish actress, Harriet Smithson, who he had seen on stage but never spoken to, and to whom he had sent numerous letters which went unanswered. The work actually led to the two meeting and marrying: however, the marriage was an unhappy one, and they eventually separated.

Tickets to the concert can be purchased from www.showshappening.com, or from the MCC’s box office.

While the concert does mark the official closing of the MPO’s season, the orchestra will nevertheless be performing in a series of summer concerts including Mediterranean Soul, a joint concert with the Malta Youth Orchestra, on 30 June. n

Soprano Gillian Zammit

42 STYLE LIVING

The easisave Way If you’re looking for an online savings portal that is reliable, secure and easy to use, then you may wish to consider Easisave. You won’t even need to visit the bank to set it up!

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e’re all looking for effective ways to save money. As the months creep by, it’s easy to ignore the fact that we should be putting money aside – whether for a rainy day, an exciting project or even retirement. Easisave is an easy-to-use system that addresses this challenge and effectively helps you to put funds aside for when you need them the most.

Easisave is a product created by the trade finance specialist, FIMBank. Easisave has recently increased its interest rates, with the most noteworthy being its 3.5 per cent rate for USD fixed term deposits.

“Easisave has recently increased its interest rates for both Euro and USD fixed-term deposits, providing customers with the opportunity to make good returns on their savings,” says Chris Trapani, Head of Cash Management at FIMBank p.l.c.

“Our focus is very much on the user-friendly and secure features of www.easisave.com, which have made it a preferred option for depositors.”

Mr Trapani emphasises that an Easisave account maximises convenience. For starters, you can open your account online within minutes and even transfer money expediently to and from your reference account. Beyond that, you’ll have access to your funds whenever and wherever you are, with support from a dedicated helpdesk that’s ready to assist you, and with no fees or bank charges to speak of.

You can also choose to have your interest paid quarterly. Plus, other benefits include the fact that Easisave operates on a safe and secure platform, and that your savings will be with FIMBank, which participates under the Malta Depositor Compensation Scheme.

So, if saving is on your mind, why not get started? With an Easisave account, you can be up and running within just a few minutes – and all from the comfort of your own computer. n For further information, visit www.easisave.com or call the Easisave Helpdesk on 2132 2102.

“Easisave is geared to provide customers with competitive interest rates. An account can be opened online in a few minutes and customers can benefit from an easy-to -use, reliable and secure platform.”

STYLE LIVING 43

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44 STYLE LIVING

The Three-Star Hotel…

WITH A Five-Star Heart Situated right in the heart of St Julian’s, the award-winning Hotel Valentina is known for its sense of style, attention to detail and personalised service.

T

here are little things that make you feel as if you’re in good hands when you stay somewhere. They’re not always instantly recognisable and you don’t always walk away remembering them specifically, but they make the entire experience all the better. They are little things like lit room numbers at the bottom of the hallways so that there’s a soothing atmosphere on the way to your room. Like how the television comes on when you walk into the room, or how the tea and coffee stations are fully-equipped. Like finding slippers in the closet so that you can go all the way up to the pool deck without having to put your shoes on. These are a few among many of the little details that add up to make Hotel Valentina feel like it’s a hotel with a five-star heart.

As a family-owned-and-run superior boutique hotel, Hotel Valentina is located in the

heart of Malta’s thriving entertainment capital, St Julian’s. General Manager Lara Mangion has seen through the operations since its refurbishment five years ago. “We’re a threestar hotel which aims to offer clients five-star personalised service and comfort,” she says.

“We like to exceed expectations by promising less and delivering more, so that guests leave feeling genuinely pleased with their choice to stay with us.”

There aren’t a lot of three-star hotels in the St Julian’s area – certainly not ones that are as well-designed and comfortable as this.

Cornering a very unique niche, Hotel Valentina is ideal for visitors who are looking for a chic boutique design hotel in the heart of Malta’s principal entertainment area. Lara says, “at Hotel Valentina we strive to offer a heartfelt and unique experience for guests looking for a home away from home.’’

The design

Planned by the directors, Charles and Roger Mangion, alongside a renowned architectural firm, the design is clever and chic, with a stylish-yet-timeless feel to the space.

The height of the foyer and the floor-toceiling windows let in plenty of daylight, maximising the sense of space. Each of the 94 rooms is fully-equipped with the latest mod cons and offers a comfortable space with clean and minimalistic furnishing to ensure a pleasant stay.

STYLE LIVING 45

The amenities

Dinner is available at the hotel’s sister restaurant, The Avenue, which is adjacent to the hotel. This popular eatery embodies value-formoney in a great atmosphere. As most locals know, the menu is extensive, and everything is freshly-made in abundance. Guests can either visit the restaurant to receive a hotel discount, or order direct room service.

Upstairs, the rooftop pool and lounge bar offer a great way to wind down or up, depending on the time of day. Summer evenings bring on live entertainment, which is perfect with a drink at the bar, while a quick morning swim in the infinity pool is an invigorating start to the day before or after breakfast.

Breakfast is also very popular. The buffet is extensive, while the breakfast area itself provides a great space to start the day, offering ample sunlight and a soothing, neutral colour scheme.

For business travellers, a board room which seats around 40 people is available on the ground floor for guests to rent out. The room is fitted out with all the needed tech equipment, so that comfortable meetings can take place without clients having to rent an outside space.

The staff

For more information, or to book, visit www.hotelvalentina.com

The great advantage of a family-owned and -run hotel is that there is usually a genuine, hands-on interest in making guests as happy as possible. This attitude permeates throughout all corners of this hotel, resulting in a friendly, accommodating, and dedicated team. No request is too large, and you feel as though it’s their absolute pleasure to meet your requirements as well as they can.

It’s no surprise then that Hotel Valentina has been scooping up so many awards and ranked so highly. While there are too many to list, it’s worth mentioning that the hotel has won Expedia’s Insider’s Select award in 2015, has scored over nine on booking.com over the years, and has also won various Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice awards, as well as Certificates of Excellence. n

STYLE BEAUTY 49

Get THE look!

TERRACOTTA

Brights From perfect skin to sun-kissed lips, this is the perfect summer make-up look to take you from day to night.

Make-up: TERRY ATTARD FOR FRANKS, USING GUERLAIN Hair: BECKY VELLA FROM DEAN GERA SALONS Model: JACQUI AT SUPERNOVA MODELS Photography: BERNARD POLIDANO Shot on location at the Malta School of Art, Valletta.

1 Fresh, tanned skin is the order of the day for this season’s key make-up trend. To achieve that, start with Guerlain’s Joli Teint Foundation – a fantastic product that combines the perfection of foundation with the effects of a skincare product and the sun-kissed radiance of terracotta. It includes an SPF 20 too, which helps to protect your skin from the sun.

STYLEtip

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Next, add colour to your cheeks with Guerlain’s Terracotta Powder, which naturally reproduces varying shades of the sun and gives you an instant glow. It’s ideal for contouring and sculpting your tan, and is available in eight shades.

Now turn your attention to your eyes, and add definition with Guerlain’s Eye Pencil (we used Shade 02 – Jackie Brown). Its easy-to-apply texture means you can use it as a liner for eye contouring, as kohl on your inner eye, or even on the entire eyelid. It is long-lasting, waterresistant and won’t transfer, so it’s perfect for summer.

Next, complete your make-up look with a powder that also adds to your tan – such as Guerlain’s Terracotta Light (to achieve this look, we used Shade 03). This light powder features a unique blend of sun-kissed tones, so it will give you a healthy-looking glow and add radiance. It is available in six shades.

Finally, add that perfect shade of summer lipstick in this season’s trademark hue – orange. We used Guerlain’s Rouge G in Shade No 43 (which is new for 2018). We love it because the colour is intense, luminous and long-lasting.

As the summer kicks into full force, don’t trust your current make-up products to stay put – opt for waterproof, whether it’s eye-liner, foundation or even mascara.

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HUGO BOSS Reclaim your freedom with this wrinkle-resistant stretch suit by Hugo Boss. Available from BOSS Stores, Ross Street, St Julian’s, and Departures Lounge Malta International Airport.

p FOSSIL Water-resistant up to 50m, this wristwatch has a silver metal bracelet with a stainless steel case that complements the grey dial (€179). Available from Sunlab, W: www.sunlab.com.mt

p Neoderma The Blue Blood Gel – Youth Infuser is a sophisticated, concentrated gel that enhances the skin’s ability to defend itself against the signs of ageing.

p neoderma The Blue Blood Face Sunscreen (SPF30) contains powerful antioxidants to protect skin from UV rays and to delay the development of age spots.

SUMMER

p Neoderma The Neo-Youth Anti-Wrinkle Eye-Neck Cream is a lightweight-yet-powerful cream that reduces the appearance of lines, wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness.

p NEW CID I-Tint Protect your skin with the NEW CID I-Tint, a tinted moisturiser with SPF 15 and a cocktail of skin nourishing antioxidants and essential oils that drape the skin with soft focus colour. For trade enquiries, contact Carewell by Reactilab, M: 9982 8498, E: sales@reactilab.com

favourites LULÙ BOUTIQUE Foliage, flowers, stripes and animal prints: Take your summer look to the next level with the stunning collection of dresses at Lulù Boutique, Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, T: 2133 1026.

t SANS SOUCIS Deep Moist Depot’s unique mix comes together in a two-phase moisture concentrate that’s dermatologically-tested and free of parabens.

STYLE HEALTH 53

Get Healthy, Happy Feet Established by Dr Katharin von Gavel in 2007, Footlogix® is the world’s first and only Pediceutical® foot care line to address the challenging needs within the foot care industry.

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sing Footlogix®, we want to increase awareness of the importance of healthy feet due to lifestyle changes and to elevate the pedicure industry by providing unique products with revolutionary technologies that give transformational results. Footlogix® products empower the industry to offer the highest level of service and are trusted by millions of feet in over 55 countries.

Footlogix® empowers professionals with the ability to elevate pedicures to a new standard of excellence. Products are easy-touse, highly-concentrated and cost-effective.

Footlogix® is committed to ongoing support through superior educational services. The Footlogix® home care range provides fast and effective results for continuing use at home. Our unique products are lightweight, non-occlusive and easy to apply – leaving no greasy residue. Through our proprietary Dermal Infusion Technology® (DIT), active ingredients are carried into all the layers of the epidermis, helping to restore it to a healthy state.

ROUGH SKIN

AFTER 2 WEEKS

PEELING SKIN

AFTER 1 WEEK

CRACKED HEEL

AFTER 4 WEEKS

NAIL FUNGUS

AFTER 18 WEEKS

Why choose Footlogix Pediceuticals® with Dermal Infusion Technology®?

Footlogix Pediceuticals® is a revolutionary and innovative foot care line formulated to provide effective, transformational care for a variety of skin conditions affecting the feet – from simple dryness to more severe conditions resulting from diabetes. Today’s knowledgeable technicians demand a product that is easy-to-use, cost-effective and reputable but most importantly, a product that really works: Footlogix Pediceuticals® provides all this… and much more! Today’s educated clients seek results-oriented products: Footlogix delivers amazing results in as little as 24 hours. n

Footlogix Pediceuticals® - available from Beauty Inc by Sue. Please call 9999 4849.

STYLE CULTURE 55

Regeneration of the Grand Master’s Palace

Ensuring a Memorable Visitor Experience The Grand Master’s Palace is undergoing major restoration works to help it regain its former glory as the centre of power, which it has been for the last 450 years, and to consolidate its status as one of the foremost attractions in Malta.

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his exciting restoration project, jointly managed by Heritage Malta and the Restoration Directorate, is expected to be spread over four years. The project will build on actions already undertaken for the EU Presidency, when façades were restored, and backbone infrastructure introduced. Nearly €10 million has been allocated to this project by the European Regional Development Fund.

Around half this budget will be dedicated to a general conservation programme of the first floor, including painted soffits and walls, lunette paintings and marble floors.

The remaining funds will be utilised for the required works to upgrade the building and for the presentation and interpretation of the Palace. Of foremost importance in this respect is the relocation of the Armoury back to its original place in the largest hall of the building, which until recently was used as the seat of Parliament.

The Armoury shall be restored to the state it was in in the post-war period of the 1950s, a period that is still recalled in collective memory and well-documented.

Considerable spaces, which, throughout the years, have had various functions and have never been accessible, will now be part of the visitable space. These include the Grand Master’s private rooms such as the bedroom, sitting room and chapel. Other spaces will host a display on the Order of St John in Malta.

The current offices of the Attorney General will be refurbished as an orientation and interpretation centre on the entire Palace, equipped with modern facilities.

The Grand Master’s Palace is one of the most imposing buildings in Valletta.

This restoration project will revitalise the building by creating an effective and engaging museum environment, thus ensuring a memorable visitor experience. n

STYLE LIVING 57

Weekly Car Transporter Services Weekly UK to Malta and Malta to UK services.

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ooking for a reliable car transport service provider to bring over a vehicle purchased from the UK? We have the experience and set-up to transport your car safely and securely. Thanks to our weekly service, we offer a fast and efficient service between the UK and Malta, with a seven-day transit time so you don’t have to wait long to drive your new car. Our professional drivers can collect your car from any location in the UK with full insurance from the moment of collection till we hand over the keys to you. We also offer multiple depots for maximum convenience.

Customer service support is on-hand to provide all updates on the delivery status of your vehicle. Our fleet of modern car transporters is continually being updated to offer you the most secure means of delivering your vehicle.

Our focus is on transporting cars and only cars, and this is why even the top car dealers rely on us to provide only the best service. n

We are happy to answer all your questions when it comes to transporting your vehicle between Malta and the UK, so feel free to call, submit a quote request or send an email to info@accesscartransport.com.

Alternatively call on: Office: 2299 5159; Customer Support: 9999 7555.

STYLE HOME 59

LET’S TAKE THINGS

outside

The ‘wicked’ collection from Vincent Sheppard

Say hello to summer with the new collection of outdoor furniture at camilleriparismode.

From staple designs to pieces that are a little bit out of the ordinary, their collection is sure to help you relish your outdoor space this summer, and countless more to come.

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ith our island’s superb weather, we should make the most out of any outdoor area with furniture that is not only impeccably stylish but also inimitable in quality.

The ‘wicked’ sofa by the iconic brand Vincent Sheppard, exclusive to camilleriparismode, combines both natural and engineered elements by uniting light wicker with a contrasting dark green aluminium frame. Its light and airy nature offers a new perspective on their renowned Lloyd Loom technique and, together with the wicker coffee table and lounge chair, will enrich your outdoor space. This technique is a particular weave using materials that are strong-yet-soft, and uniquely suitable for all kinds of weather. Vincent Sheppard upholds a strong belief in seating comfort, high-quality and durable materials, and also takes into account environmental sustainability with its eco-friendly furniture; an embodiment of respect for both man and nature.

Similarly, Royal Botania’s ‘jive’ table creates a decorative and refreshing mood with its warm teak wood. A perfect blend of precision and functionality, this piece of furniture also utilises an aluminium frame, combined here with a teak surface. Together with the rest of the ‘jive’ collection, your outdoor area will surely stand out. The name Royal Botania, exclusive to camilleriparismode, alludes to lush gardens and nobility, and the brand focuses on quality at every step of the manufacturing process – from creation and production to distribution. With a refined and diverse choice of outdoor collections, it strives to meet the needs of each individual customer. Royal Botania furniture is made to last and with all materials used being 100 per cent recyclable,

The ‘jive’ collection from Royal Botania

you can be certain that the brand’s creative minds are always set toward the future.

Camilleriparismode provides decorative and timeless furniture for the outdoors that not only looks great and is comfortable, but is manufactured in accordance to strict environmentally-conscious guidelines. After all, a sustainable approach to enjoying the outdoors ensures you and your family can be lounging on their pieces for generations to come. n

The ‘casilda’ collection from Talenti

Discover the new collection in camilleriparismode’s Rabat outlet to make the most of your outdoor space. For more information, visit www.camilleriparismode.com or contact them on 2010 2030.

STYLE HERITAGE 61

ARCHITECTURE TAKES Centre Stage The Din L-Art Ħelwa awards highlight and reward projects that make an outstanding and significant contribution to architectural excellence in a Maltese context, with a focus on regeneration, re-use and conservation. Marie-Claire Grima spoke to this year’s three winners to discuss the projects they worked on, their motives and inspirations, and what winning the Award means to them.

Portrait photography: Alan Carville

THE COACH HOUSE, BALZAN

“Even the humblest building can have extremely interesting and inspiring features,” says AP’s David Drago, who turned a set of 15th-century farm rooms into a stunning Balzan residence.

Photography: Alex Attard

Historically, the site of the Coach House in Balzan was occupied by a string of farm buildings dating back to the 15th century.

A palazzo adjacent to the buildings was constructed in the 18th century for Vincenzo Bosio, Commander of the Knights of the Order of St John, as his own residential quarters, and the rural farm structures were absorbed into the palazzo’s baroque layout. Historian Mons Gwann Dimech’s book Ħal Balzan – Ġrajjietu sal-1999, which dedicates a chapter to palaces and other

historical houses in the village, specifically refers to the entrance of the Coach House on the right-hand side of the square, as the entrance leading to the area where animals – and the coach – used to be kept.

“The main aim of the project was to preserve the functional nature of the preexisting building while turning it into a home, accommodating the requests of the new owners,” says David Drago, founding partner at Architecture Project. “Initial discussions with our clients took place around seven years before completion – the project’s Grade I scheduling required extensive discussions with various heritage and planning organisations.

Some of the rooms on the ground floor – including a large mill room and an adjacent room with corbels – have ceilings that exceed four metres in height. To turn what used to be a one-storey service building into a home, an extension was grafted on the perimeter

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aiming at combining wall of the pre-existing structure, “To preserve our contemporary minimalism separate from the historical built heritage, we with vernacular building fabric, clearly distinguishing have to constantly technologies and traditional the intervention from the Maltese materials. The existing, and therefore breaking find new ways façades are built of limestone down the resulting elevation of making it dressed like a weave, creating in harmonious components. a surface of changing “To connect both Palazzo Bosio ‘accessible’ while shadows which echoes the and the original service building, respecting it.” irregular surfaces of the a new self-supporting staircase historical walls below, whilst reducing was conceived as an independent the impact of the new-built volume. For sculptural structure built from solid me, this project’s biggest achievement steel plates. A variety of plants climbing is the balance established between the metallic mesh on the exterior of the respect of the original volumes this new structure provide protection and their connections, and modern from sun radiation as well as privacy. amenities, the successful combination Meanwhile, the woven stone façade of contemporary architectural is the result of design investigations elements in a historical context.

“Even the humblest building can have extremely interesting and inspiring features that – as it happened with the Coach House – stimulate innovative design solutions. But restoration alone sometimes is not enough to preserve a building and inject new life into it, especially in today’s highly demanding

environment. To preserve our built heritage, we have to constantly find new ways of making it ‘accessible’ while respecting it.

We are careful to avoid preservation as an ideological battle driven by nostalgia, just as we resist the temptation to easy and immediate financial gain of insensitive developments. The Coach House is the result of an approach which takes into consideration all these elements and finds new solutions to mediate between them through design. The project was also found worthy of the Silver Medal Award, signifying the best overall in all categories, because of the success of this harmonious relationship between contemporary expression and our heritage values.”

Mr Drago says that winning this award was a source of great motivation for the whole team of architects and engineers involved in the realisation of this project. “It’s a product of the passion they have for their work. We hope that this project will serve as a relevant case study on how our unique built heritage can be preserved while being ‘kept alive’.”

STYLE HERITAGE 65

THE MACINA, SENGLEA

“New architecture should add a richer layer to the cityscape without damaging the existing historic fabric of the city,” says EM Architects’ Edwin Mintoff, who transformed the Macina on Senglea’s sheer bastion into an exclusive luxury hotel.

Photography: Alan Carville

The Three Cities are a great source of architectural beauty and for EM Architects founder Edwin Mintoff, whose family hails from the area, they hold a special place

in his heart. “I visited the Macina in my youth, and I remember even then looking in amazement at the existing structure. When I was later approached to be the lead architect for the project, I could not wait to take on the challenge to restore the structure to its former glory and to bring the history of the building and the surrounding area to light,” he says.

The structure known as Macina forms part of St Michael’s bastion, a critical part of the city of Senglea’s landward defence. The sheer bastion derives its name from its use, a mechanism for ship mast fitting, known as a ‘macchina’, which was active from the early

17th century. The machine was originally made of strong hardwood, but in 1864 the British changed it to a modernised steel structure.

In 1927, the machine was dismantled by the Admiralty in favour of a floating lift crane, and the Macina has subsequently been used for a variety of purposes including the Admiralty’s Head Office, a trade school, political headquarters, and an exhibition space for special events. “The structure’s original layout consisted of numerous large vaults of massive construction developed within the bastion over three floors. The large office block on the lefthand side of the main building originally had four large rooms over each floor with a rear backyard. The second storey, which had a larger floor area than the other two floors, had all its halls roofed by semi-circular vaults which had been supported by very thick walls. The original gun platform of the bastion covered the entire area of the roof building,” Mr Mintoff says.

“The Macina has now been restored as a guesthouse with ancillary facilities which include a pool, bar, restaurant and cafeteria and a future spa, linking the building’s past use with its new identity, and focusing on the culture and character of the Cottonera

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area. All modern alterations have been planned to be aesthetically distinguishable, but still homogenous when compared to the existing building, so as to produce a holistic design. It was imperative to us that any new architecture should add a richer layer to the cityscape without damaging the existing historic fabric of the city. For example, the pool has been designed to be concealed within the existing balustrade, ensuring that the structure is hidden from view, while allowing swimmers to enjoy the picturesque marina views. The roof, or gun platform level, is now a restaurant which is open to the public. Skylights which had been previously closed up have now been re-opened to allow natural light to enter the structure. The façade has been enhanced with the introduction of black apertures,

be credited for this really means so adding an additional “All modern much. In my opinion, when it comes dimension of interest alterations have to protecting our Maltese architectural through the contrast and been planned to heritage, it is important that we adjust shadow effect. The rooms to contemporary conditions and to are luxuriously planned, be aesthetically the influences of rapid social and all enjoying sea views. distinguishable, but technological changes, otherwise Life has been breathed still homogenous many of our older buildings run the back into this beautiful but derelict building.” when compared to risk of either becoming a museum or being assaulted and despoiled by Mr Mintoff says that the existing building, incompatible modern developments. his firm’s philosophy is so as to produce a That is why urban architecture is based on an approach of the utmost importance in Malta, which seeks to create holistic design.” so as to create a new layer in our sustainable development history which respects the old but is in harmony with nature conscious of the new, and that is why I am to produce not just an aesthetic design but so glad the Din l-Art Ħelwa Awards are one which enhances the user’s experience. celebrated each year, so as to promote the “For me, the rehabilitation of the Macina safeguarding of our architectural heritage.” project was truly a labour of love and to

STYLE HERITAGE 69

BINJA LAPARELLI AT THE CENTRAL BANK OF MALTA, VALLETTA

“Binja Laparelli needs be experienced at close quarters, engaging all one’s senses,” says Bezzina & Cole’s Keith Cole, who created a brand-new structure for the Central Bank of Malta on the grounds of St James Counterguard.

The Central Bank’s Binja Laparelli is a new building erected on the site of an unfinished structure, which was built within the fortification walls during the early 1980s by previous occupants of the site.

At that time, the site had been excavated and a rudimentary building shell erected.

The Central Bank acquired the site on St James Counterguard later that decade. As the incomplete shell was irrelevant and

inadequate for its purpose, it was dismantled to clear the site to receive a building designed to address its requirements.

“Despite its compact footprint, Binja Laparelli addressed a wide-ranging brief,” says Bezzina & Cole founding partner, Keith Cole. “The opening requirement was to provide additional office space. At the same time, the Central Bank, which is an important centre of knowledge and

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“Both inside and outside the building, we sought assiduously to fashion a contemporary place befitting its context, function and status.” research in matters of economics and finance, sought to provide a resource library for banking staff and sectorial professionals.

Dissemination of knowledge entailed the development of a training centre, this being the third purpose of Binja Laparelli.

Given that the Central Bank of Malta is an intrinsic player in the eurozone, the panelled walls of this flexible training centre were designed to be stowed away and concealed, to reveal a conference hall able to accommodate larger meetings.

Other services housed within the building are ancillary to these three functions.”

Consideration of the history, form and fabric of the stone masonry fortifications was the first step taken to inform the process of inserting the building into this context.

“A second endeavour was to seek continuity and connection with the adjacent Binja Ġlormu Cassar, which had been completed

a quarter of a century earlier. Only after steeping ourselves in the context did we start to consider the operational requirements of the brief. Both inside and outside the building, we sought assiduously to fashion a contemporary place befitting its context, function and status,” Mr Cole says.

The location of this building gave the firm powerful design cues to work with.

“Binja Laparelli needs be experienced at close quarters, consequently engaging all one’s senses. The proximity of the visitor to the surfaces and the appreciation of their respective qualities make this an intensely haptic experience, as much as it is a visual one. Since several tactile surfaces were within reach, the feel of reliefs, forms, textures and materials required purposeful consideration.

“Acoustically, the hard surfaces of the stone walls, the unpolished ceramic

floors and the architectural bronze fixtures were softened with the juxtaposition of wood veneer panels and acoustic soffit tiles.

Reflected off the higher Valletta bastions, this site’s characteristic light influenced the design considerably. Light penetrates the façade through the protective brise soleil, the library and office windows, and the structural glazing in the foyer. Additionally, responding to the deep floor plate, a regular array of roof lights let natural light spread evenly onto the surfaces of the upper offices and foyer. Movement, whether vertical, diagonal or horizontal, added a more contemporary experience of the interior space. As a result, the casual visitor is coaxed into engaging with the architecture and its games, rendering the use of this building unconsciously uplifting.”

While at close quarters striking, the building fits perfectly in its context. “A previously lost area of the fortification has become a distinctive place. We believe the consistency and force of the ensemble stands out. In architecture ‘the whole is greater than the sum of the parts’ is a merited adage. Binja Laparelli provides an experience whereby, before leaving the building the visitor is positively stirred,” Mr Cole states.

“Being bestowed an award by Din L-Art Ħelwa, which has for over 50 years educated and encouraged our society to understand our past and to strive for a better future, caring for our distinguished historical landmarks and nurturing our future ones, is a veritable honour to the many who in some way contributed to this success.” n

STYLE HOME 73

SummerUPDATE

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“You honestly don’t need a complete overhaul to align your house and mood with the changing seasons,” says designer MARISE PACE from Grey & Adler. “Instead, focus on the details – you’ll be surprised by the extent of the shift they’ll give the over-all space.”

DECORATIVE Superstars 1. Age-Old Practices

The trick to making the custom of adorning whole walls or small nooks with ceramic plates feel modern is simple: think of the area as a whole and create a space where the paint or the wallpaper works with your decorative plates.

2. Better in Twos

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Some things are just better in pairs, particularly when it comes to table lamps. Whether they are on an entry table, flanking a sofa, or on either side of the bed, twin lamps are guaranteed to add a sense of effortless order to any space.

3. Small Big Changes

There is one age-old adage that’s definitely true: that you can breathe new life into a room simply by changing the cushions. So, to switch from a winter to a summer feel, opt for bright, light and colourful ones.

4. Smart Scents

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When the thermometer starts its upward climb, it’s time to reach for a scent that will help invigorate you. Encased in stunning bottles, the Côte Noire range of home fragrances has plenty of scents for you to choose from.

5. Guiding Lights

Both when solitary and grouped, lanterns add ambience to a space by bringing literal and figurative light to your home. So, place them everywhere: to shed light on your terrace, to shine as the centre of your dining table, or to brightly occupy the spare corner of a console.

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6. Solar Inspiration

A sunburst mirror’s captivating energy demands to be the centre of attention in any room. We love them in all sizes and, whether they’re claiming most of the wall or only a small part, we can’t help but admire their beauty.

7. Stylish Comforts

These rugs aren’t just stunning to look at, they’re also extremely durable. In fact, they are made to be used both inside and out… Just imagine how sophisticated your new barbecue or hangout by the pool could be!

8. Versatile Pieces

Pouffes are a great décor element: use in the living room, either as extra seating or as somewhere to place magazines or coffeetable books. Or in a walk-in wardrobe… you know, for when you need to sit down and wonder how you never have anything to wear.

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“Summer is a time for unwinding… but it is where you unwind that matters most,” says GABRIELLA ARCIDIACONO, the sales and marketing director for Boris Arcidiacono.

“That’s why my number one recommendation this season is a Stressless® chair, which will help you make the most of your downtime so you can be at your best and sharpest when you need to.

Here’s how to create your personalised Stressless® experience.”

Sit BACK

1. Select Design and Size

A chair is meant to serve you, but all too often we have to adapt to the seating available.

Well, with over 20 different models to choose from – and with several types of bases for each of those models – a new Stressless® masterpiece can be crafted with your height, body shape and preferences in mind.

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2. Choose the Home Office Base

Comfort on wheels will give you the full freedom of movement while you get on with your work.

Available in all 20 Stressless® models (in size M), the Home Office Base chairs come with all the comfortable functionality of the other recliners, including the Plus™ system, which offers synchronised neck and lumbar support adjustments.

3. Introducing: Stressless® Home Cinema Seating

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Enjoy the sights and sounds of home theatre in amazing Stressless® comfort! Thanks to the patented Stressless Plus® and Glide® systems that let you recline the seats and adjust the headrest and lumbar support for perfect comfort, these seats aren’t just smartly-designed but also highly functional. All four models (Arion, Legend, Pause and Wave) are available for testing.

4. Choose the Star Base with BalanceAdapt™

Alternatively, the Star Base with BalanceAdapt™ has a stylish rotating steel base

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and fresh lines that will make it (and its matching footstool) a guaranteed talking-point in any living room. These come in standard and high-base editions.

5. Choose the Signature Base with BalanceAdapt™

Our bodies are designed for movement and variation not for sitting still, which is why this chair’s seating angle adjusts automatically to the way your body moves. With its soft and comfortable rocking motion based on an aluminium and wood frame, this chair is a treat for both the eyes and the body, and is available in sizes S, M and L.

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6. Choose Classic

Decisions don’t need to wear you out, and the classic-style Stressless® won’t wear out easily either. With solid wood components made from lightlysteamed beech, this chair is extremely durable, and comes in 16 models (and in S, M or L).

Separate footstools are also available for added comfort.

7. Choose the LegComfort™-System Available in 16 models and in sizes M and L, this chair’s elegant footrest is hidden beneath the seat to save you space when it isn’t needed and to provide extra comfort when it is. All you have to do is lightly touch the buttons to provide optimum leg support.

7 different wood colours to choose from, in addition to the wide range of colours and qualities in the leather and fabric collection. You can also add a Stressless® Swing or Computer Table, to truly take your comfort to the next level.

8. Finishing Touches and Accessories

The final brushstroke on a painting can make all the difference, and that goes for your Stressless® chair, too. You’ll have eight

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“Being able to spend more time outdoors is one of summer’s best perks,” says MARCUS BONNICI, the managing director of JYSK. “To be able to make the most of our outdoors, however, you’ll need to treat them in the same way you would any indoor space: by making the most of the area at hand.”

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OUTDOOR Splendour 1. Stylish Extras

These kubu wicker flower pots add character to elements we often just overlook. Place multiple ones next to each other, or dot them around, to create a more homely feel.

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2. Intelligent Buys

Seating often comes in short supply at outdoor get-togethers; something which then leads us to take our expensive dining room chairs out. So think ahead by investing in a heavy-duty bench that can withstand the elements and provide seating for multiple people at once.

3. Practical Necessities

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It’s the little things that make a big difference, particularly when you’re lazing around outdoors…

Easily portable and super durable, this minimalist steel side table will provide added comfort by giving you extra surface area to place drinks, books, phones or anything else.

4. Natural Picks

These days, plastic has taken over outdoor spaces, but that has taken away the glamour and aesthetic that only natural materials can bring to the table.

To change that, opt for something like this handsome, hardwood sunlounger to enrich your outdoors with texture, colour and style.

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5. Beautiful Durability

Practicality is essential outside, particularly as we all tend to go for the bare minimum when it comes to our outdoors.

A beautiful lantern like the highly-durable EREMITT, can truly bring everything together and add ambience both during the day and at night.

6. Luxurious Comfort

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There’s nothing quite like sinking into a reclining armchair at the end of a long day… And that shouldn’t stop just because it’s summer. In fact, the STORD, which has an aluminium frame covered in polyrattan, is the ultimate hybrid of inside comfort and outdoor sturdiness.

7. Satisfyingly Complete

There is nothing wrong with mixing and matching outdoor furniture, however, nothing gives off that feeling of completeness better than a lounge set in the same style and colour. In a way, this is turning your outdoor area into a second living room.

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8. Functional Beauty

When it comes to our outdoors, we shouldn’t have to pick between something that’s practical and something that’s stylish. This lounge chair, for example, is made from steel and polyrattan, and just needs a plush cushion to help turn it into strikingyet-comfortable seating. n

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STYLE LIVING 79

CLELAND & SOUCHET The iconic Christofle Mood is now exclusively available in a rose gold finish from Cleland & Souchet, where patrons can park for free. Cleland & Souchet, 14, Portomaso, St Julian’s, E: info@clelandsouchet.com, W: www.clelandsouchet.com FARSONS Farsons Gold Label Pale Ale is an all-malt pale ale brewed using two different types of malt and hopped using a special blend of five different hop varieties, which together give this beer its characteristic and unique hoppy flavour profile. The overall result is an innovative combination of the hoppy basic notes with exclusively fruity characteristics. Dominant hints of apricot, passionfruit and red berries, coupled with a touch of grapefruit, complement a very pleasant malt character with hints of biscuit flavour in the after-taste.

THE SUMMER KITCHEN The chic, al fresco restaurant by the pool at the Corinthia Palace Hotel and Spa in Attard returns for its fourth delicious season. This summer, enjoy scrumptious pizzas cooked in the new wood-fired oven, as well as hearty salads, grilled meats, pasta, and vegetarian and vegan dishes. Book your table on T: 2544 2738.

MCCM The Medical Cosmetics’ Smart Pack works intensively to renew skin cells, visibly reduce wrinkles, fight sagginess, and moisturise skin while making it smoother and firmer. Exclusively distributed by Noriva Ltd, T: 2141 3112, E: info@noriva.com.mt, W: www.noriva.com.mt

STYLE

DIKSON Dikso Blonde – the latest addition to the lightening range by Dikson – combines the properties of keratin and organic wheatgerm oil into a new lightening formula to make hair up to nine shades lighter. Exclusively distributed by Noriva Ltd, T: 2141 3112, E: info@noriva.com.mt, W: www.noriva.com.mt

checklist

HOMETRENDS Get the complete Grandhall Maxim Five-Burner Gas Built-in barbecue with island and side burner for €1,449, or separately to be inserted into any type of outdoor island for €850. HomeTrends, Industrial Estate, San Gwann and Mdina Road, Haz-Zebbug, T: 2144 5654, E: shop@hometrends.com.mt, W: www.hometrends.com.mt

DR. GRANDEL KOSMETIK The PROTECT series by DR. GRANDEL Kosmetik is an enriched formula of vitamins A, C and E designed to offer protection to environmentallystressed skin. For trade enquiries, contact CAREWELL

by Reactilab, M: 9982 8498, E: sales@reactilab.com

VIVENDO has just launched the Home Collection by vitra. See all the new items available at DEX Showroom, Mdina Road, Qormi.

80 STYLE LIVING

Those Balmy Summer Evenings…

Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life awaits a perfect foodie experience like no other.

N

ow a firm favourite and trendy eatery, The Luna Restaurant at Palazzo Parisio, set in a historic building of grandeur, combines a variety of international culinary concepts.

Every corner emanates femininity and assures you relaxation, understated luxury and a taste of history by the mouthful, thus allowing you to bask beside fragrant orange blossom and flamboyant bougainvillea, a stunning backdrop of riotous colour with the light glinting off the fountains as they spear upwards towards the sun and where flowers perfume the air.

Now that the days are getting longer, lingering on from the afternoon into the evening, and as the sun sets onto the garden, sit and sip an exquisite aperitif along with some tasty bar bites or enjoy the wide selection of vintage wines, champagnes, vodkas and a variety of innovative cocktails. As the nights draw in and the air begins to cool, the gardens are graced with sheer elegance and style, and our gastronomic delights are illuminated with crystal and candles. Let our food ‘whisper sweet nothings’ to your taste buds and relish a kaleidoscopic range of tastes – some of the most creative and stylish food interpretations enhanced by a vast selection of wines from the wine cellar. The attention to detail, textures and refined ambience is an adventure in gastronomic accomplishment, through to the service and ‘art de la table’.

George Bernard Shaw once wrote, ‘there is no love sincerer than the love of food’ and we at Palazzo Parisio embrace this belief, but there is so much more here to discover than just food. Our desire is to instil all our visitors with a sense of romance about all that we have to offer; be it a tour of the historic house, a stroll around the walled gardens, a browse in our exclusive boutique, a relaxing lunch, a sumptuous traditional English afternoon tea, a sparkling glass of champagne on the garden terrace, or dining under summer skies and the soft glow of candlelight – we promise each and every one of our guests a brief but enjoyable sojourn.

Virginia Woolf once said… ‘one cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well’… So join us here at Palazzo Parisio and Luna, and let us seduce you with our charm, and wine and dine you until you are replete, and in doing so bid you adieu, so you can think, love and sleep well! n

Open daily Monday to Sunday from 9am until 8pm for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and drinks, and from Wednesday to Sunday for dinner from 7.30pm until late (last orders at 10.45pm).

Palazzo Parisio, 29, Victory Square, Naxxar. T: 2141 2461 Ext2; E: fb@palazzoparisio.com; W: www.palazzoparisio.com

STYLE CUISINE 83

The Innovation of Nostalgia Experimenting with classic tastes, our chefs give a new lease of life to popular ingredients.

POACHED VEAL WITH TUNA SAUCE Ingredients: 1 veal fillet weighing approx. 400g, cleaned and tied to maintain shape; 1 carrot, 1 onion, 1 celery stick, all sliced; thyme; parsley; a bay leaf; a few peppercorns; 2 garlic cloves; pinch of salt; 100ml white wine; 1l water.

For the tuna sauce: 40g capers, drained; 100g canned tuna in olive oil, drained; 3 garlic cloves (confit); 4 anchovy fillets; the juice of one lemon; black pepper; 30ml extra virgin olive oil; 125g mayonnaise.

Food inspired by the new menu at THE SUMMER KITCHEN,

BY EXECUTIVE CHEF STEFAN HOGAN, CHEF JONATHAN ZAMMIT, AND PATISSIER MARK McBRIDE, FROM THE CORINTHIA PALACE HOTEL & SPA, ATTARD Props by GIGI’s ANTIQUES AND COLLECTABLES Styling and photography by TONIO LOMBARDI

Method: To make the tuna sauce, place the tuna, capers, garlic, and anchovies in a food processor, pulse and gradually add the olive oil. Puree to a smooth paste and add the lemon juice. Place in a bowl, add the mayonnaise, adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate.

Then, begin by marinating the veal.

Place the meat in a large saucepan with the carrot, onion, celery, garlic cloves, peppercorns, the herbs and salt. Pour the white wine over the meat, cover, and leave for about 15 minutes. Remove the veal from the saucepan, add the water and put on the stove, bring to the boil and reduce to a simmer. Add the veal fillet and allow to cook for 15 minutes before removing from the heat and allowing to cool in the liquid.

Remove from the liquid and pat dry, then secure in cling film and chill to firm up. Slice, garnish the dish with red wine vinegar-pickled shallots, small caperberries, the tuna sauce, and crisp olive crumbs, and serve.

Also in this picture: Octopus with nduja, peas and lemon jam, cured mackerel, compressed cucumber and yuzu gel.

84 STYLE CUISINE

FRENCH BEAN & WILD MUSHROOM SALAD Ingredients: 200g French beans, blanched; 200g mixed wild mushrooms, sautĂŠed in smoked garlic oil; 60g cooked freekeh.

For the dressing: 30g white miso; 50g red miso; 50ml rice wine vinegar; 10ml sesame oil; 15ml light soy sauce; grated ginger (to taste); 15g English mustard powder, diluted with 20ml water; 80ml vegetable oil; 15g sugar.

Method: To make the dressing, place all the ingredients in a blender, and gradually add the oil until it is fully emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Next, place the French beans, mushrooms and freekeh in a bowl and add enough dressing to coat. Toss, garnish with crisp free shallots, goji berries and fresh coriander, and serve.

Also in this picture: Iberico pork presa, stuffed fresh fish complemented with steamed asparagus, and a Trevisano salad with beets, capers and raisins.

STYLE CUISINE 87

STONE FRUIT COBBLER WITH VANILLA ICE-CREAM Ingredients: 4 peaches, 4 plums, 4 nectarines, sliced; 120g golden caster sugar, plus extra for sprinkling; 1tsp ground ginger; 150g plain flour; 1tsp baking powder; ½tsp ground cinnamon; 150g butter, cut into cubes; 1 small egg.

Method: Heat the oven to 180°C before greasing a baking dish with butter and laying the drained fruit slices on the base.

Sprinkle with two tablespoonfuls of the sugar and the ground ginger. Set aside.

Tip the flour, remaining sugar, baking powder and cinnamon into a food processor, and add a pinch of salt. Whizz until combined, then add the cubes of butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs, then add the egg and continue to blitz until you achieve the consistency of thick dough.

Dollop the dough on top of the peaches, creating a good covering, but leave some gaps for the dough to spread into.

Sprinkle with caster sugar, then bake for 40 minutes until golden. Serve with vanilla ice-cream. n Also in this picture: Peach melba.

STYLE LIVING 89

Emirates celebrates 20 years of service in Malta at Zest, St Julian's

papped!

IN STYLE

Pre-Valletta contemporary fundraiser dinner, Café Society, Valletta Marie-Claire Bugeja, Adriana Farrugia, Sean Ellul

Ray Bugeja, Matthew Xuereb

Paul Fleri Soler, David Melillo, Simon Muscat

Master American pianist Jeffrey Siegel performs at the Malta Society of Arts, Valletta

Tiziana Vella, Jeffrey Siegel, Roderick Camilleri

Joseph J. Mifsud, Dorothy Meli, Adrian Mamo, Jeffrey Siegel, Joe Scerri, Roderick Camilleri, Norman Cristina

Adrian Mamo, Jo Caruana, Jeffrey Siegel, Stephen Sant Angelo, Joe Scerri

International conference on sustainable concrete, Old University Campus, Valletta

Chris Agius, Charles Buhagiar, Philip A Tabone, Sandro Chetcuti, Ruben Borg

Ruben Borg, Januarti Jaya Ekaputri

Philip Tabone, Ivana Torressan

Michael Holmberg, Andrea Von Bahr, Charlotte Holmberg, Line Young Peteri, Christina Ramn-Ericson, Robin Ramn-Ericson, Johan Nordström, Viveka Nordström Harry Potter quiz night in aid of the Costa Foundation, Costa Coffee, Sliema

Tom Camilleri, Anthea Agius Anastasi, Antonino Mazzonello, Matthew Spiteri, Dylan Abela, Jo Caruana

Launch of Malta Fashion Week, MedAsia Playa, Sliema

Matthew Mamo, Sofia Kuzmenko

Launch of latest fashion and beauty offerings at Debenhams, The Point, Sliema Left: Tamara Webb, Danita Camilleri Middle: Malcolm Gauci, Jade Zammit Stevens, Madeleine Baldacchino Right: Grazielle Camilleri, Caroline Paris, Anna Marie Galea, Bibi Rath

Marco Parascandalo, Daniel Azzopardi, Sarah Zerafa

Iggy Fenech, Sarah Zerafa, Lee Grixti

Fiona Vella, Anna Marie Galea, Daniel Azzopardi

90 STYLE LIVING

Summer 2018 collection launch party at Charles & Ron Flagship Store, Valletta Left: Marco Parascandalo, Sarah Zerafa, Caroline Paris, Daniel Azzopardi Middle: Caroline Paris, Noelene Miggiani, Ron van Maarschalkerweerd Borg, Marisa Grima, Charles van Maarschalkerweerd Borg Right: Carina Camilleri, Ron van Maarschalkerweerd Borg

Press Freedom Day at the US Ambassador's residence, Attard

Jo Caruana, Michael Zammit Maempel, Adam VanDervort

Adam VanDervort, Richard Lui, US Ambassador G Kathleen Hill

iGathering dinner by Sigma, Magazino Hall, Valletta

Michael Holm, Rob Ripley