HOMEWORKS 28 by HOMEWORKS

ISSUE 28.07

HOMEWORKS Welcome to

HOMEWORKS 28 edition. th

083

his issue of HOMEWORKS is positively electric with energy, merriment and enthusiasm! We are absolutely brimming

A PERFECT BLEND OF WINE & CUISINE

with exciting features that celebrate the season and all that it has to offer.

By BILL HERMITAGE

Apart from the inspirational articles, we have some gorgeous homes featured this issue. See newly finished Architect David Vassallo’s family home in St. Julians: the ideal marriage of classic and contemporary, wrapped in a fine parcel of elegant (page 20). World famous Maestro Eric Hull’s theatrical flair translates to his home in “Breathing Baroque in Senglea” (page 30). Architect Matthew J. Mercieca wields his magic again, this time for a home in Mosta with a large family who brave it and make the change from weary to welcome (page 40). Be sure that your run-up to the festivities is both organised and enjoyable - don’t miss our Christmas advent calendar of daily reminders and inspired ideas (page 48).

LOOK OUT FOR OUR CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE INSERTED IN TODAY’S SUNDAY TIMES, FILLED WITH HUNDREDS OF GIFT IDEAS!

007 HOMEWINNERS 009 HOMENEWS

HOMEWORKS FEATURE BY ELISABETH CARDONA

017 CHRISTMAS TRENDS

styles and colour schemes (page 54), homemade bauble (page 67) and wreath ideas (page 71), Christmas card ideas (page 73) as well as things you’ll want to know about Christmas lighting (page 75).

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CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN HOMEWORKS FEATURE BY ELISABETH CARDONA

Of course Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without the sugar and spice, all things nice. See page 79 for the sweet side of the season.

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020 SEAMLESS BLEND 031 BREATHING BAROQUE IN SENGLEA 040 SPACE RELATIONSHIPS

SPACE RELATIONSHIPS

048 CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN

By GUY LAGUENS

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020

SUGAR N’ SPICE AND ALL THINGS NICE

SEAMLESS BLEND

BY ELISABETH CARDONA

By CHEF JOE VELLA

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HOMEWORKS’ TOP 8 LAMPS

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By LISA BORAIN

CHRISTMAS MEANS...

Christmassy things” begins on page 52 and covers Christmas party

have yourselves a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

CHRISTMAS TRENDS

052

Then let the merriment begin! Page after page of “a few of our

Seasons greetings to all at the HOMEWORKS team:

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By Lisa borain

052 CHRISTMAS MEANS... 063 HOMEWORKS’ TOP 8 LAMPS 067 BOLD BAUBLES 069 WILD WREATHS 073 HANDMADE CARDS 075 DAZZLING LIGHTS 079 SUGAR N’ SPICE 083 A PERFECT BLEND OF WINE & CUISINE 085 HOMEWORKS A to Z of SUPPLIERS 003

HOMEWORKS Welcome to

HOMEWORKS 28 edition. th

083

his issue of HOMEWORKS is positively electric with energy, merriment and enthusiasm! We are absolutely brimming

A PERFECT BLEND OF WINE & CUISINE

with exciting features that celebrate the season and all that it has to offer.

By BILL HERMITAGE

LOOK OUT FOR OUR CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE INSERTED IN TODAY’S SUNDAY TIMES, FILLED WITH HUNDREDS OF GIFT IDEAS!

007 HOMEWINNERS 009 HOMENEWS

HOMEWORKS FEATURE BY ELISABETH CARDONA

017 CHRISTMAS TRENDS

styles and colour schemes (page 54), homemade bauble (page 67) and wreath ideas (page 71), Christmas card ideas (page 73) as well as things you’ll want to know about Christmas lighting (page 75).

048

CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN HOMEWORKS FEATURE BY ELISABETH CARDONA

Of course Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without the sugar and spice, all things nice. See page 79 for the sweet side of the season.

040

020 SEAMLESS BLEND 031 BREATHING BAROQUE IN SENGLEA 040 SPACE RELATIONSHIPS

SPACE RELATIONSHIPS

048 CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN

By GUY LAGUENS

079

020

SUGAR N’ SPICE AND ALL THINGS NICE

SEAMLESS BLEND

BY ELISABETH CARDONA

By CHEF JOE VELLA

063

HOMEWORKS’ TOP 8 LAMPS

002

By LISA BORAIN

CHRISTMAS MEANS...

Christmassy things” begins on page 52 and covers Christmas party

have yourselves a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

CHRISTMAS TRENDS

052

Then let the merriment begin! Page after page of “a few of our

Seasons greetings to all at the HOMEWORKS team:

017

By Lisa borain

HOMEWORKS

™

Issue 28.07

HOMECOMPETITION We want your Feedback! Forward your ideas outlining what you would like to see published within HOMEWORKS.

This Edition:

The person submitting the most interesting idea/concept will receive a 9-piece set of fusion stoneware, courtesy of Bella Casa.

Editor Lisa Borain

ASSOCIATE EDITOR JO CARUANA Art Director Marc Spiteri Design ALLEN VENABLES PHOTOGRAPHY ALAN CARVILLE MARK CASSAR MAS DAVID PISANI – METROPOLIS CONTRIBUTORS ELISABETH CARDONA GUY LAGUENS ANNE MARIE QUERCIA JOE VELLA Sales & Marketing 2133 9999 MATTHEW SPITERI Pre-press and Printing Progress Press Postal Address / E-mail WriteOn Ltd. P. O. Box 48 Msida, Malta info@writeon.com.mt

HOMEWORKS is a registered trademark of writeon Ltd.

HOMEWORKS is published by writeon ltd. every two months on Sundays with an audited circulation of 39,500 copies distributed with The Sunday Times of Malta.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the Publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor no publisher accept responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. While we endeavour to ensure that firms and organisations mentioned are reputable, the editor can give no guarantee that they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. © 2007

HOMEWINNERS 27 edition… TH

Send your ideas to: HOMEWORKS Feedback, P. O. Box 48 Msida, Malta or email: info@writeon.com.mt

Congratulations to Valerie Depasquale– our twenty-seventh HOMEWORKS reader suggestion winner. Valerie has won the gild mirror, courtesy of Fifth Avenue, Plaza Shopping Centre, Sliema. Valerie wrote: “Congratulations on HOMEWORKS Magazine. It’s obvious that all the team members give their utmost for such a successful joint venture. I take lots of tips and ideas for decorating my home from it and for that I would like to thank you for helping me whenever I redecorate any area or room in my house. I would appreciate it if you would include a feature offering tips on how to decorate

our homes with family photographs. It would really help if you could describe the best way to do it and how to use different sizes and styles of frames. I would like to learn how to use various types of photographs – for instance, using colour photographs or black and white. It would also be interesting to show the best places around the house for placing photographs.”

READERS WROTE “I am a huge fan of your magazine and find it so interesting and inspiring. We are a family of three and live in a first floor maisonette. Recently we created a roof garden and we would like to see an article on how to take care of outdoor plants and where best to situate them to create the perfect environment. Also, tips and ideas on how to plan a roof garden, maybe showing some detailed plans of existing gardens, would be of great help to us.” - Maria Baldacchino

“A big well done to all the HOMEWORKS team. It is by far the best magazine distributed in The Sunday Times and well worth saving for future reference. I find it full of fresh ideas, which one could easily adopt for his home. I have recently considered laying down parquet in my bedrooms, but I’m at a loss where to start. I would thus greatly appreciate if you could publish an A - Z article regarding anything that has to do with the subject, especially colours, patterns and materials (natural wood or synthetic).” - Lilian Cassar

HOMEWORKS Needs you! HOMEWORKS READERS are invited to submit interesting photographs and a brief description of their homes, which may be distinct in their architectural design. Of particular interest are homes that offer outstanding elements of both interior and exterior living spaces. HOMEWORKS will select the best submissions for future features. Send a photo and information to the attention of: The Editor, Writeon Ltd., P. O. Box 48, Msida, Malta 007

HOMEWORKS

™

Issue 28.07

HOMECOMPETITION We want your Feedback! Forward your ideas outlining what you would like to see published within HOMEWORKS.

This Edition:

The person submitting the most interesting idea/concept will receive a 9-piece set of fusion stoneware, courtesy of Bella Casa.

Editor Lisa Borain

HOMEWORKS is a registered trademark of writeon Ltd.

HOMEWORKS is published by writeon ltd. every two months on Sundays with an audited circulation of 39,500 copies distributed with The Sunday Times of Malta.

HOMEWINNERS 27 edition… TH

Send your ideas to: HOMEWORKS Feedback, P. O. Box 48 Msida, Malta or email: info@writeon.com.mt

HOMENEWS

THE LATEST INDUSTRY HAPPENINGS THE TILE SLATE

The new slate look-alike tile is back in 32.5 x 32.5 and 32.5 x 49, as well as 49 x 49. It is being produced in gres porcellanato by one of emilceramica’s most prestigious brands, Fabbrica Del Vignola. Skirting and step tiles also compliment this range. The tile comes with a 20-year guarantee.

GREENSUPPLIER GARDEN LIFESTYLE DIRECT SALES PIONEER FULL-HD

Once again Pioneer has reaffirmed its mastery of plasma picture quality. The ‘Full-HD’ PDP-LX508D sets a new standard for that key benchmark of home cinema video performance: black level depth. For such a home cinema workhorse, the PDP-LX508D is also capable of reproducing high definition movies in their original format of 24 frames per second, exactly as they would be seen in a movie theatre.

A breathtaking selection of contemporary garden furniture, plant containers and modern fountains has now been introduced, available in terrazzo, metal, stainless steel, aluminium, polyester and ceramic. Be inspired by a collection that unites quality with the atmosphere and style of today.

MDINA GLASS NEW OUTLET

Following the successful opening of Mdina Glass’ new outlet just inside the entrance to Mdina, the complete range of their internationally acclaimed handmade glassware can now be seen at the company’s special Open Week. This annual event is to be held at their Ta’Qali outlet from today until December 16th.

MIN.KA ALPACA FUR

Min.Ka is introducing new products for 2008, amongst which are Alpaca Fur Products. One of the finest and most luxurious natural fibers in the world, Alpaca Fur is as soft as cashmere but stronger, warmer and lighter than wool. Such is the finesse of this fiber originating from the Andes in South America that Alpaca Fur was referred to as ‘The Fiber Of The Gods’ by the ancient Inca civilization. Area rugs, bedside rugs, throws and cushions in Alpaca Fur are now in stock at Min.ka.

PIPPA TOLEDO FIFTYFIVE

Renowned for her delicious sense of style, designer Pippa Toledo recently launched her interiors boutique at 55, Amery Street, Sliema. Specialising in delectable goodies for the home, Fiftyfive will intrinsically suit various styles and budgets whether the look is modern, classical or contemporary. Stocking everything from lamps and tables to soft furnishings, Fiftyfive will be exclusively retailing the exquisite Villa Collection from Denmark and Carroll Boyes collection from South Africa, as well as the unique designs of Pippa and Philip Toledo. 009

HOMENEWS

THE LATEST INDUSTRY HAPPENINGS THE TILE SLATE

GREENSUPPLIER GARDEN LIFESTYLE DIRECT SALES PIONEER FULL-HD

MDINA GLASS NEW OUTLET

MIN.KA ALPACA FUR

PIPPA TOLEDO FIFTYFIVE

HOMENEWS

THE LATEST INDUSTRY HAPPENINGS DESIGN HOUSE DESIGNER FIRMS

LIVING INTERIORS DISCOUNTS Living Interiors are now offering exceptional prices on their latest collection of designer household goods and fine foods with discounts up to 70%. So, if you have been eyeing that FoppaPedretti ironing board, that Bodum coffee maker, those Riedel crystal glasses or that Rรถsle open kitchen system, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Design House of Dingli Street, Sliema, welcomes readers to view the new exciting ranges of decorative items just received from established designer firms in Northern Europe.

BDI NOLTE BEDROOMS

BDI has introduced Nolte Bedrooms. The wide range of traditional and modern bedrooms allows you to experience the benefits of owning a German bedroom which not only looks terrific but is built to last. BDI also offers the latest 2008 kitchen fronts and kitchen gadgets offered by Alno, the leading German kitchen manufacturer.

JDS NEW COLLECTION

JDS Furniture has just received a new collection of Italian, modern and stylish accessories. Hand-crafted and made in Italy, these accessories vary from wooden vases to vases covered in 24-carat gold and silver. JDS Furniture has also just launched a variety of shaggy carpets in a vast range of colours.

S&S BATHROOMS FIMA

These new arrivals reflect the current trends in black and white and there is a large selection of items and gifts to please any style, taste and pocket. HOMEWORKS readers also invited to join the Design House team on an Open Day on Thursday 13th December for Gluhwein and Lebkuchen. From 14th until 24th December the shop will be open all day.

CASHA FLORISTS ON ORDER

Now you can request whatever type of flower you need and receive your order in a week. Ideal for the Christmas season and entertaining in general, the choice of flora is unlimited, as it is shipped in from overseas every week. Nothing makes Christmas merry like fresh flowers in the home.

FIMA Carlo Frattini presents a new jewel at S&S bathrooms in Mosta.

KERAMIT BATHROOM CENTRE RAVAK

Keramit Bathroom Centre have just introduced the new brand name, Ravak. The company is international, with its main base in the Czech Republic. One of its products is the Love Bath, which is a uniquely shaped corner bath built for two persons with sideby-side seating, as opposed tothe traditional seating. 011

HOMENEWS

THE LATEST INDUSTRY HAPPENINGS DESIGN HOUSE DESIGNER FIRMS

Design House of Dingli Street, Sliema, welcomes readers to view the new exciting ranges of decorative items just received from established designer firms in Northern Europe.

BDI NOLTE BEDROOMS

JDS NEW COLLECTION

S&S BATHROOMS FIMA

CASHA FLORISTS ON ORDER

FIMA Carlo Frattini presents a new jewel at S&S bathrooms in Mosta.

KERAMIT BATHROOM CENTRE RAVAK

HOMEWORKS

HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS… HOMEWORKS WOULDN’T BE WHAT IT IS WITHOUT THE CONSISTENT SUPPORT OF HOMEOWNERS WITH GREAT INSIGHT AND FLAIR FOR DESIGN. THANK YOU ALL FOR LETTING US INTO YOUR HOME TO SHARE YOUR INSPIRATION WITH OUR READERS. The HOMEWORKS Team would also like to say a great big THANK YOU to all of those who have contributed to ensure that HOMEWORKS keeps on bringing readers inspiration, improvement and style, issue after issue.

PATRIK ADOLFFSON, INTERIOR DESIGN KURT ARRIGO, PHOTOGRAPHY HENRY BORG BARTHET, INTERIOR DESIGN PATRICK CALLEJA, ARCHITECTURE ELISABETH CARDONA, EDITORIAL ALAN CARVILLE, PHOTOGRAPHY SILVANA CINI, CRAFTS STEFANO DALL’OSSO, LIGHTING DESIGN LUISA DIACONO, EDITORIAL FRANCESCA ELLUL, EDITORIAL RICHARD ENGLAND, EDITORIAL/ARCHITECTURE BRIAN GRECH, PHOTOGRAPHY SIMON GRECH, ARCHITECTURE BILL HERMITAGE, WINE GUY LAGUENS, EDITORIAL PIPPA MATTEI, CUISINE SHARRON McNAMARA, INTERIOR DESIGN MATTHEW MERCIECA, ARCHITECTURE PAUL MIZZI, PHOTOGRAPHY MARIS PACE, INTERIOR DESIGN MARK PACE, ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN DAVID PISANI/METROPOLIS, PHOTOGRAPHY ANNE MARIE QUERCIA, CRAFTS SIMONE SALERNO, FLORA SOFIA SALDANHA, INTERIOR DESIGN CHRIS SANT FOURNIER, PHOTOGRAPHY MARIA SCERRI, ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CARLO SCHEMBRI, INTERIOR DESIGN MELINA SCODANIBBIO, LANDSCAPE DESIGN KENNETH TANTI, STYLING PIPPA TOLEDO, INTERIOR DESIGN ALLEN VENABLES, DESIGN GODWIN VELLA, ARCHITECTURE JOE VELLA, CUISINE KATJA WIEDERSUM, INTERIOR DESIGN ANTOINE ZAMMIT, ARCHITECTURE A special thanks to those for the assistance in the making of HOMEWORKS:

MAS COMMUNICATIONS RITA BONETT, SALES COORDINATION JOE CAMILLERI, PROGRESS PRESS MARK SCIBERRAS, PROGRESS PRESS 015

HOMEWORKS

MAS COMMUNICATIONS RITA BONETT, SALES COORDINATION JOE CAMILLERI, PROGRESS PRESS MARK SCIBERRAS, PROGRESS PRESS 015

CHRISTMASTRENDS HOMEWORKS

SHOOT LOCATION: CHRISTMAS PALACE

AMBER The young, modern world of decoration makes a powerful appearance. Amber is the balance between comfortable Southern charm and Mediterranean temperament. Earthy tones, sand, amber and orange are reminiscent of the scorching desert sun.

BAROQUE BORDEAUX & GOLD Minimalist is shoved aside by Baroque this year and here, royal gold meets the dark red of aristocratic informality, with deep, tones like burgundy and Bordeaux.

WHITE & GOLD The white and gold inspiration this year comes from the opulence and romance of St. Petersburg. Rich embellishment, Baroque ornamentation, angels, velvet, lace, crystal and trimmings set the tone here.

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CHRISTMASTRENDS HOMEWORKS

SHOOT LOCATION: CHRISTMAS PALACE

BAROQUE BORDEAUX & GOLD Minimalist is shoved aside by Baroque this year and here, royal gold meets the dark red of aristocratic informality, with deep, tones like burgundy and Bordeaux.

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CHRISTMASTRENDS HOMEWORKS

PLAYFUL The top designers are having a bit of fun this festive season. Find loads of cartoon character ornaments on the rack this year, for the kids and everyone.

STYLISH CRIBS There is no reason to have to rely on dated nativity sets – now there’s a wide range of options on the market to ensure that you can celebrate the holiday properly, focusing on the right side of Christmas. THESE PRODUCTS ARE PART OF THE A DI ALESSI CHRISTMAS COLLECTION.

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CHRISTMASTRENDS HOMEWORKS

PLAYFUL The top designers are having a bit of fun this festive season. Find loads of cartoon character ornaments on the rack this year, for the kids and everyone.

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HOMEWORKS

SEAMLESS

BLEND

ARCHITECT DAVID VASSALLO HAS CREATED THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF FAMILY HOME AND STYLISH HABITAT, WAY UP HIGH IN ST. JULIANS. WORDS: ELISABETH CARDONA PHOTOS: MARK CASSAR STYLING: KATJA WEIDERSUM DECOR ITEMS: DESIGN HOUSE ARCHITECT: DAVID VASSALLO 020

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Restructured into a seamless space of light & movement, with terraces running along three sides.

ny architect’s home is his castle, and perched high up on one of St Julian’s most imposing hills is the home of David Vassallo, his wife and their growing brood; they’re now a family of five with three young children dashing merrily around the stylish furniture and smart décor. Seamlessly blending a world fit for a family together with a career built on aesthetics is without doubt a challenge for even the most seasoned of architects and designers. DAVID. “The important thing for us was to create a home that would serve several purposes; one that would look good and prove comfortable for all the people living here. When we found the apartment I was thrilled with its primary location right in the heart of a well-established part of St Julian’s. What really won me over was the uncharacteristically generous floor space that was on offer; the vast potential of 300 square meters was immediately tangible and very exciting. What was even more appealing was that all the rooms were outward looking with balconies and terraces running along three sides. This offered a fantastic opportunity to fill the apartment with the light and air that we craved.” 022

David’s vision for the apartment didn’t fit its original layout and work started almost immediately to transform the flat from a 60s build with an uninspiring layout into the open-plan, easy-going space that it has become. “I had to create a living space by transforming the house from a series of isolated rooms, which led off a dark and narrow corridor, into a restructured seamless space of light and movement. My objective was always to bring in as much daylight as possible and create as much room as was plausible. To reach that goal I had to redefine the space substantially.” The large master bedroom situated next to the lounge was to become the kitchen, whereas its en-suite would be changed into a cloakroom and guest toilet. In turn, the old guest toilet (which was situated bang in the heart of the living area) was removed all together, thus creating a dynamic flow through the lounge and dining area, and ultimately through the kitchen and the study (which was the previous owners’ kitchen). Existing walls were pulled down and the whole apartment was stripped to shell form. Ultimately the place had to be child friendly, but the couple wanted to achieve this without sacrificing that certain cutting edge look along with a few functional perks thrown in.

“I had to create a living spac e by transforming the house from a series of isolated rooms, which led off a dark and narrow corridor into a re structured seamless space of light and movement.”

The study, which was the previous owner’s kitchen. 023

HOMEWORKS

Restructured into a seamless space of light & movement, with terraces running along three sides.

“I had to create a living spac e by transforming the house from a series of isolated rooms, which led off a dark and narrow corridor into a re structured seamless space of light and movement.”

The study, which was the previous owner’s kitchen. 023

HOMEWORKS

“In the end we managed to achieve the finished result by selecting choice materials and furnishings that created the desired ambience as well as an element of distinctiveness. I wanted the finished look to be easy on the eye but also to carefully introduce bold splashes of colour. Combined, they create a tranquil yet vibrant space.”

antique items. All together it simply enhances its charm. The whole renovation took approximately seven months to complete, from start to finish. Besides alterations to the living areas, other structural works included the construction of a new master bedroom on what was previously a large terrace off the original bedroom area and the reconfiguration of the bathrooms.

Furniture-wise, the couple has merged two different looks to create one that works: the house, especially in the living and dining area, is a contemporary mix of modern looks with numerous

The open plan nature of the day zone with its high level of natural light is a central aspect. As it’s been developed into an open space, a doorless area where the family can move easy between space to

space depending on their needs, communication has been eased and links embellished. The arrangement also promotes healthy plant growth and confers a conservatory ambience. As light and sound have been incorporated, switching to relaxation-mode is further helped by easy links with the terraces and the family have been able to enjoy moving easily between indoors and out while taking pleasure in the stunning views. As for the décor, the calming background of bright whites, dusky greys which turn into burnished

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Furniture-wise, the couple has merged two different looks to create one that works: the house, especially in the living and dining area, is a contemporary mix of modern looks with numerous

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HOMEWORKS

A doorless area where the family can move easily between indoors and out while taking in stunning views.

warmth and deep reds in the Oriental rugs, as well as the coordinating glass items in the living areas, make it all the more pleasant to live here. The house has certainly managed to be many different things to the different family members who are living or growing up here; quite simply it’s the whole package.

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Now the family have been living in the house for nearly a year; this will be their first Christmas. “Over all, the house really does suit our needs to the letter and as a family we have been thrilled to see it develop into what it is today – it certainly has been tried and tested!” HW

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A doorless area where the family can move easily between indoors and out while taking in stunning views.

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BREATHING BAROQUE IN

SENGLEA INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED CONDUCTOR ERIC HULL, WITH INFINITE OPERAS & RECORDINGS UNDER HIS BELT, HAS CHOSEN TO MAKE MALTA HIS HOME. HOMEWORKS TAKES AN EXCLUSIVE GLIMPSE INTO HIS 17TH CENTURY SENGLEA HOME, WHICH COULDN’T POSSIBLY REFLECT HIS LIFESTYLE MORE ELOQUENTLY.

here’s no other way to begin: Eric Hull is a wonderful guy. Apart from the fact that he’s a foreigner who truly respects the Island’s culture and heritage, he’s a world famous conductor, gregarious about life, minus the expected pomposity or arrogance. Besides his passion for music and Malta, he is positively ardent about his home. His home, situated on Victory Street, Senglea, it’s modest exterior doesn’t give away its grand interior. The house dates from the late 1600s, likely during the period of Grand Master Caraffa. This area in particular was described by pre-war travellers as one of the most elegant places in Europe – many of the palatial facades are still testimony to this. The conductor was born in Canada, but having lived in Europe most of his life (Vienna, London, Milan and Monaco, his most recent previous residence), Eric wanted to find and create a home where he could hang his hat between engagements, de-stress and unwind, as well as concentrate on the research, study and preparation of upcoming concerts and operas.

WORDS: LISA BORAIN PHOTOS: DAVID PISANI / METROPOLIS 030

Eric. “Malta, being steeped in history with its flourishing cosmopolitan flavour, provided the perfect location for me. The people, the culture, the architecture and the close links to the rest of Europe, not to mention its fiscal policy, made moving here very attractive. Monaco was a marvellous experience and Malta has been an exciting continuation of that. Given my passion for unearthing, editing and conducting baroque operas, finding and restoring a 17th century townhouse has been a dream come true.” 031

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BREATHING BAROQUE IN

WORDS: LISA BORAIN PHOTOS: DAVID PISANI / METROPOLIS 030

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The two most important things to Eric in finding a home were that the house be historical and have a sea view. “I couldn’t imagine moving to an island and not see the water, but I knew that finding the two criteria rolled into one would be a tall task.”

WHILE RUNNING THE PROJECT, IT CONSTANTLY REMINDED ME OF CONDUCTING ORCHESTRAS…IN THEIR HEART OF HEARTS, ARTISTS AND ARTISANS ALWAYS WANT EXCELLENCE, BUT SOMETIMES NEED A BIT OF ENCOURAGEMENT OR CAJOLING IN ORDER TO MAKE THE EXTRA EFFORT INVOLVED IN NOT SETTLING FOR SOMETHING MERELY ACCEPTABLE.

”

Historically, residences were typically set inland, the sea representing a threat both by invaders and by weather. However, Malta has the advantage of its majestic protected harbour, so Eric’s choice was very soon narrowed down to the Grand Harbour area: “When I walked into this house, I realised that it had the potential of becoming everything that I desired in a home.” This was a multi-faceted restoration project. It needed to be given back its historical resonance “in order to enable it to sing with its own voice and give it back its magic”. The resoration project - from permit application to the day Eric moved in - took 3 years. In renovating the historical defining elements of the house such as the entrance hall and central courtyard, the task consisted largely of applying rigorous restoration methods, with the invaluable guidance of the brilliant architect and baroque restoration expert Claude Busuttil. “As I had learned from editing and performing baroque operas, the most beautiful results are usually achieved by using the same ways and means as in the original, while leaving room for creativity within the boundaries of a style…remaining faithful to the original while breathing life into it. The difficulty lies in understanding exactly what those stylistic boundaries are!”

In this case, the original pluri-centennial features and stone details were given the utmost respect, but painstakingly cleaned and restored. In the Entrance Hall, all extraneous and distracting modern decoration and intervention was removed in order to exalt the beauty of the theatrical baroque perspective worthy of a Bibiena stage set. In the courtyard, 17th Century-designed stone balustrades were reinstated to the graceful arches of diminishing sizes, which accentuate the rhythm of the upward perspective. Many layers of modern practical solutions to old practical problems were removed in favour of more efficient solutions already invented by the ancients. For example, the stone was allowed to “breath” by removing the plaster and oil-based paint from the whole central courtyard, obstacles to natural air currents were removed, any trace of aluminium was banished, and modern 032

ceramic floor tiles in the entrance hall were replaced with Gozitan coralline limestone. At the same time, the tubes necessary to re-establish the typical 17th Century bell-shaped cistern were reinstalled. One major obstacle was a cement bathroom that had been constructed, jutting from the first floor into the courtyard. This could not be demolished, so it was incorporated into the period style by extending it upwards in order to create a typically baroque inside balcony. The arch underneath, which completes the perspective in the entrance hall, conceals all of the unsightly tubes necessary for modern plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and solar heating, as well as the electrical wires necessary for television, telephone, and the Intelligent lighting/security/surveillance/intercom system. 033

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Further up, the music room, which is meant as a formal salon, but also as a rehearsal room with a theatrical feel, contains “the finest piece of furniture I have, even though it isn’t really furniture at all…the piano. It is a late 19th Century Steinway, which has been recently superbly reconditioned at the Steinway factory in New York…it’s a truly magnificent instrument. I constructed the reproduction of a 16th Century spinetta myself from a kit. The louvers behind the piano were being discarded from a historical house in Senglea, so I had a wonderful neighbour lovingly restore them. I find it particularly rewarding to snatch little morsels of history from oblivion.” This room has a French influence to it, largely due to the Aubusson carpet, and the large French doors that have replaced the gold aluminium ones.

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HOMEWORKS The chandelier in the formal dining room was recently given to Eric by the retiring Director of the Opéra de Monte-Carlo. The chandelier had been hanging for the past 20 years in his office at the Casino de Monte-Carlo, following an illustrious career in a Belle Epoque villa on Cap Martin. “Most Maltese generally gasp in disgust at my thoroughly 1920s Art Deco office. I guess many Maltese still don’t like the Art Deco period. But its forms are so masculine and geometrical that it feels really perfect for an office.” The top floor (the kitchen, living room and roof) had previously been demolished for structural reasons and therefore needed to be rebuilt. Once destroyed it would never again be original, so instead of opting for an elaborate fake, the same baroque rigorous exuberance was applied to a very modern aesthetic. The clean modern lines, once contextualised, become very classical. Elements of the rest of the project were used to unify the aesthetic and create the rhythm necessary (and so vital to baroque art) to tie these rooms into the rest of the project. Even fragments left over from the rest of the project were incorporated, like balustrades or replaced original architectural elements.

The house is organised chronologically, but not for the sake of a cheap gimmick. The lower floors need the weight of the traditional, but as the upper floors are flooded with more sunlight, it seems natural that the decoration reflects that, becoming lighter as well. Not unlike Eric, his home is deeply culturally rooted, but modern in outlook. It has all of the comforts of modern living: it’s an efficient yet harmonious place to work, a great place to relax and play, easy to entertain in, effortless for having guests come to stay, self sufficient and care-free while he’s away. “While running the project, it constantly reminded me of conducting orchestras…in their heart of hearts, artists and artisans always want excellence, but sometimes need a bit of encouragement or cajoling in order to make the extra effort involved in not settling for something merely acceptable. I think that people really rallied to the challenge. Old houses like this pay back the extra effort ten-fold.” HW CHRISTMAS DECOR: COURTESY OF GIOCASA, MARSA, LARGE CHRISTMAS TREE: SHERRIES GARDEN CENTRE, SMALL TREES: PISCOPO’S. 036

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SPACE RELATIONSHIPS

DESIGNING A SPACE MEANS THAT WE VISUALISE HOW THE SPACE WILL BE USED AT ALL TIMES. IN THIS CASE, THE ARCHITECT’S PERSONAL EXPERIENCE OF HAVING TWO BROTHERS HELPED REFINE THIS VISUALISATION AND SUCCESS OF THE SPACE INTERRELATIONSHIPS FOR SUCH A FAMILY ENVIRONMENT. HOMEWORKS MEETS THE CAMILLERIS. PHOTOS: ALAN CARVILLE WORDS: GUY LAGUENS ARCHITECT: MATTHEW J. MERCIECA FURNISHING: BoCONCEPT

e begin the shoot upstairs and it takes me a while to realise that the reappearing boy who keeps crossing our shoot is actually a succession of different boys. Each one is more polite than the last, each respecting the process of what we’re doing. It strikes me that every boy has his own room (there were three, as it turns out), their own private spaces, a place where they can concentrate on their homework in peace. It seems ideal. This home wasn’t always so well planned out.

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The Camilleri’s have been living in the Mosta home for sixteen years. Not too long ago, they braced themselves for a revival – a renewal of the home for both aesthetic and investment purposes. They approached architect Matthew J. Mercieca, who immediately saw the design crunch: “There weren’t enough relationships established between the inside and garden, the natural light and interiors. Nor were there enough spaces to satisfy what had become a five member family!” The house was initially a one level semi detached villa with a small garden. In order to go for the

change, they had to achieve the immense step; to brave it and entrust the project in Matthew’s hands, who knew it necessary do away with a lot of redundant items and spaces. The solution to the lack of architectural relationships lay in the addition of a new level: “this would resolve the lack of space, simultaneously creating a garden area that would not only become a key feature to the house, but would also provide usable space”. 041

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SPACE RELATIONSHIPS

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The new design incorporated a staircase, which extended the living area that was essential for the family. It was crucial that the staircase was unobtrusive and this was achieved by free floating massed details, such as the treads and handrail, as well as the incorporation of the function of a light fitting in the landing. MATTHEW. “Its transparency lends well to the double storey space surrounding a solid bridge interconnecting the newly established living and play area and one of the bedrooms on the first floor. The glazed translucent landing sheds an up and down glow to mark its position and a contrasting similar day lit glazed aperture hovers just above.”

The elements of double height space, the floating stairs, the bridge and the clear view of the garden through a 5m glazed aperture turns the need of accessibility and movement through the house eventful. Central to the house is also double height library shelving. Carefully chiselling apertures in the old building also gave long distance hinting views into the garden from the entrance, completing the transformation of the enclosed, somewhat limiting pivotal space. In turn, this offered connectivity, light, orientation and identity. Whilst the kitchen and main bedroom were retained in the same rooms, the main bedroom

suite achieved a personal importance and more privacy from the other bedrooms that were taken to the first floor. The main bedroom and ensuite were also visually and physically connected to a more secluded part of the garden. The translucency here made for a sense of space where space was limited. A haven was created for the kids on the first floor. They now have their three bedrooms on this floor and a play area that’s ideal for keeping the rest of the house in order. “Designing a space means we visualise how the space will be used at all times, and in this case having a personal experience of two brothers helped refine this visualisation and success of the space interrelationships for such a

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family environment”. This level also has access to a front terrace that gave a composed and developed front elevation. Lighting was critical to the project. “Striking a balance between allowing and controlling natural light was achieved by using varied sizes and orientation of apertures, together with milky white glazing and blinds. Artificial lighting identifies the architectural features externally and highlights the key areas of circulation internally. Soft concealed glows make the living areas comfortably cosy and elements, such as the stove are singled out with halogen spots.” 044

The materials selected internally were varied. Solid maple vanities and mosaic together with polished white gres tiles were used in the boys’ shower rooms in a dynamic composition. All the bedrooms were brightened with key walls painted in bold colours. The living areas were sculpted with gypsum board elements to incorporate lighting and air-conditioning where needed. A lightly stained alder was used for the glazed doors and dark stained marine ply was used for the stair threads. Maple parquet in the bedrooms contrasts with the polished white gres in the living and circulation spaces. The main bedroom and ensuite were tackled with more sophistication; teak parquet flooring was used in the bedroom area and stained

marine plywood floor coupled with lightly grained polished gres tiles for the walls reflective enough to bring the olive tree just outside inside. From a constricted space the garden attained a reposed feel, incorporating pebbles and planters with varied vegetation, as well as a linear fish pond. Grey slate textured flooring, blue masses, white walls, pebbles, glazing and water unite in a Zen space large enough to entertain and clean-lined enough for a silent break. The house that could have been called quasi-rustic and perhaps more frivolous in nature, now holds a fresh and contemporary Mediterranean feeling – this, without disturbing the initial happy rapport to the home. HW

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CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN CHRISTMAS IS COMING, THE GOOSE IS GETTING FAT HERE HOMEWORKS COUNTS DOWN YOUR MUST-DO’S BEFORE THE 25TH.

Tickets always sell out so make sure not to miss the rush and book your tickets for this year’s MADC panto Pirates of the Mediterranean – book online atwww. teatrumanoel.com.mt

The official Homeworks stance on this is that Christmas is the one time it’s ok to be kitsch. So go all out and fill each nook and cranny with glitz, glamour and flashing lights like never before!

If you haven’t already it’s time to decorate your tree and hang your decorations. Have a think about the different themes you could use to decorate your home this holiday season. Check out some HOMEWORKS ideas starting on page 52.

Send out invitations to a Christmas gettogether or New Year’s Party. This season is brimming with occasions to dress up and meet up – so why not have one of your own?

The ‘Qaghaq tal-Ghasel’ or Treacle Ring is the traditional Maltese goodie for this time of year. Why not rope in your pals and have a go at making them, or if you’re on the clock pop to the nearest bakery to pick up a batch.

Why not encourage your little ones to send a letter to Santa? His address is Santa Clause, 25, Reindeer Way, North Pole, Planet Earth, The Universe.

Spend the day cooking Christmas pudding and other Christmas trees to ensure the whole house smells of sugar, spice and all things nice. See page 79 for some sweet inspiration.

Really get into the spirit of things by heading down to Lija where, once again, a full on, live and walk-through crib is being presented complete with donkeys and a baby in a manger. An exciting outing for the whole family.

Buying online is a great way to find different and exciting gifts for your family and friends. Be sure to do so earlier so that they’ll be under the tree by Christmas Day.

Stock up on booze! You never know who’s going to drop round this time of year so make sure you’ve got some Champagne hanging about.

The final-hours countdown really is on! Wrap your last few presents, make some eggnog and ensure you have every last ingredient needed for the Big Day – tomorrow is your very last chance to get them!

Time is running out to send parcels, cards and letters! Maltapost advise that all letters should be sent by the second week of December to ensure their arrival.

Join in with the famous St Johns CoCathedral Christmas Concert which takes place every year. Sing along with all your favourite carols kick off is at 7.30pm.

With everything ready and the presents under the tree, enjoy Christmas Eve by attending a typical Midnight Mass at your parish – a great opportunity for family & friends time, and there’s always breakfast afterwards!

It’s a public holiday! Use your extra hours to make some exciting crafts to decorate your tree and home. For tips on baubles and decorations made from nature turn to page 67.

Be sure to have bought your wrapping essentials. Avoid the rush and think ahead about the theme you’ll choose for gift-wrapping.

Merry Christmas and Good Tidings from all the Homeworks Team!

WORDS: ELISABETH CARDONA PHOTOGRAPHY: MAS 048

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