HOMEWORKS 70 Christmas Issue 2014 by HOMEWORKS

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速 ISSUE 70 DECEMBER 2014

COVER STORY CHRISTMAS WITH CHARISMA

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Spatial Designer Monika Rutishauser welcomes HOMEWORKS into a quirky world of Christmas at her Floriana home

contents

011 Readers Letters & Competition 013 Home News 017 The HOMEWORKS Architectural Awards 021 Christmas Trends 024 Christmas With Charisma

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040 A Whole New Level 064 Then & Now 076 Vienna Meets Valletta 082 Pallazino! 091 Christmas Decorating Inspiration 104 Christmas Decor 110 The Perfect Christmas Party 120 Christmas Feature 126 Christmas Trees 131 Food News

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132 Yuletide Yum: Cuisine & Wine 146 Address Book

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EDITOR’S LETTER HW

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… For those who haven’t begun to venture out to the shops yet, there is so much out there, especially by way of Christmas decorations. With new permanent and seasonal shops opening up, there is certainly no lack of festive spirit in the street windows this year. Apart from bringing readers some very merry homes, our decorating and styling features are sure to ignite your festive inspiration. This issue offers a variety of different Christmas looks and colour schemes by stylists Monika Rutishauser, Emma Armstrong and Greta Apap Bologna. For those who are on the hunt for a Christmas tree this year, see our article on Christmas trees, which offers an insight on the different types, as well as the pros and cons of real versus faux. Of course it just wouldn’t be Christmas without beautiful food - don’t miss our extensive cuisine section this issue, which offers a wide variety of starters, mains and desserts, all fit for the festive season. We hope this exceptionally Christmassy issue helps usher in the season. In the meantime, here’s to wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

PUBLISHER MARC SPITERI HOMEWORKS is published by writeon ltd. and is a registered trademark of Writeon Limited. 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. © 2014

EDITOR LISA BORAIN ART DIRECTOR MARC SPITERI DESIGN JONATHAN BAJADA

PHOTOGRAPHY MAS ALAN CARVILLE ROB FIOCCA TONIO LOMBARDI SEAN MALLIA ALLEN VENABLES CONTRIBUTORS ELISABETH CARDONA ALAIN GRECH BILL HERMITAGE JENNIFER JO BARTH GUY LAGUENS MONIKA RUTISHAUSER GRETA APAP BOLOGNA EMMA ARMSTRONG

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READER’S RESPONSE HW

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THE PERSON SUBMITTING THE MOST INTERESTING IDEA WILL RECEIVE THIS FLOORLAMP, WORTH €129, COURTESY OF BUTLERS Send your ideas to: HOMEWORKS Feedback, Writeon Ltd., Airways House, Level 5, High Street, Sliema SLM 1551 or email: info@writeon.com.mt

ISSUE 69

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CHRISTINE MUSCAT IS THE WINNER OF THE 96-PIECE CUTLERY SET WORTH €139, COURTESY OF COSECASA CHRISTINE WROTE: “My idea for an article on HOMEWORKS is to focus on influences - for instance, Moroccan, African, English. There could be sections within this focusing on classic, modern and contemporary. The article might also educate people on how to mix styles. Well done for such a useful magazine and thank you for the work and effort of putting it together!”

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NEEDS YOU! 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.

Read HOMEWORKS online or on your mobile device. Last issue, over 15,000 readers did! http://issuu.com/homeworks

Latest updates on upcoming issues Trends and design ideas Monthly facebook competitions Read past issues Design articles Pinterest charts Supplier Directory

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Also available for purchase from the HOMEWORKS Facebook page: HOMEWORKS A Collection of Contemporary Maltese Interiors and Architecture Over 300 pages of vibrant and stunning photography from homes featured in HOMEWORKS.

HOMEWORKS will select the best submissions for future features. Send a photo and information to the attention of: The Editor, Writeon Ltd., editor@writeon.com.mt

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ALESSI ALLURE Get your Christmas cookie-making on with Alessi’s yuletide shapes. Find them at Petrolea, www.petroleamalta.com

FROM BEAN TO CUP This is not just any coffee machine. This is the new Krups Espresseria Full Automatic, which boasts an impressive CV. Its ergonomic design includes a 15 bar pump and Thermoblock System with an integrated percolation chamber, an LCD graphic display and a bean coffee grinder. Make the perfect cup of coffee. Find it at A&A Mizzi, www.aamizzi.com

SCANDI SAGAFORM The new Scandinavian brand SAGAFORM is all about joyful and innovative gifts for the kitchen and beautifully dressed tables - both indoors and out. Find it at Debenhams Tigne, www.facebook.com/DebenhamsMalta

THE GARDEN-LOVER’S GIFT True to the spirit of Christmas, Maurice Mizzi’s recently-launched book “The Pleasures of Gardening in the Maltese Islands” is on sale to support a cause close to the author’s heart, as proceeds from sales will go to The Spiro Mizzi Foundation. The foundation was set up by the author with the aim of helping with the education of children and young people born and living in the Cottonera area in need of support. The book is dedicated to the hundreds of trees and shrubs that can be grown successfully on the Maltese Islands. The author spent a good part of the last sixty years focusing on local horticulture and its possibilities given our islands’ windy and dry climate. A walk through Maurice’s elegant and diverse garden in Bidnija allows the reader to experience the plants’ life cycles, changing seasonal colours, and plant interaction with the Maltese climate. What better gift for garden lovers this Christmas? Find the book at all Agenda Bookshop Outlets and on The Spiro Mizzi Foundation Facebook Page.

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> ONE FOR THE COFFEE TABLE

HAMPER HAPPY! Find a great new selection of Christmas hampers at CoseCasa this year. Choose between sweet, savoury and beverage hampers incorporated with handy household items. www.cosecasa.com

HOMEWORKS A Collection of Contemporary Maltese Interiors and Architecture makes a perfect Christmas gift. Over 300 pages of vibrant and stunning photography from homes featured in HOMEWORKS. Available for purchase from the HOMEWORKS Facebook page: https://www.facebook.

com/HOMEWORKSMALTA

GINGERBREAD TREE TIME Find a new range of nine assorted sized snowflake cookie cutters at Topline this year to create an impressive stacked gingerbread Christmas tree. www.giftsandmore.com.mt

DEPTH & SHIMMER Now expect more from One Two One Interiors’ wallpaper collection with the introduction of a stunning new Floribunda collection by Clarke & Clarke. All designs are manufactured in Lancashire, England and are surface printed, resulting in a wonderful, painterly effect. Hints of metallic and pearl are used throughout the range, adding depth and shimmer. www.onetwoone.eu

MIDNIGHT MADNESS LOFT invites readers to its Midnight Madness event on the 12th of December. Visit LOFT’s outlet in Naxxar, open from 9am till midnight on the day, where mulled wine and other treats will set the tone for Christmas. With just two weeks left to Christmas, this is gift shopping made easy! www.facebook.com/LoftNaxxar

PERFECT TIMING Now’s the time to get those lamps and rugs you’ve had your eye on with BoConcept’s 20% Off All Lamps & Rugs promotion throughout the month of December. www.boconcept.com 015

HW ARCHITECTURAL AWARDS

Architectural Awards 2014

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Secretary Dr. Michael Falzon, MEPA Chairman Vincent Cassar, and Kamra tal-Periti President Stephen Farrugia spoke to commence the awards, while Malta Developers Association President Sandro Chetcuti administered them, sponsored by Attard Brothers. Copies of just-released HOMEWORKS ‘The Nesting Issue’ No.70 were given out, which featured the impressive Valletta house converted by Chris Briffa Architects on the cover. The magazine also featured a house

designed by newcomers X,Y,Z Architecture, an apartment by MJMDA, as well as a conversion by Daniel Scerri Periti. HOMEWORKS would like to thank the sponsors: MEPA, Kamra Tal-Periti, Malta Developers Assocition, Attard Brothers, Valletta Waterfront Vee Gee Bee and Glow.

To find out more about AwardWinners, visit our Facebook page homeworksmalta

Photography Sean Mallia

The commencement of the HOMEWORKS Architectural Awards 2014 proved a success with an impressive industry turn-out. Malta’s most prominent Architects graced the Old Power Station in Valletta waterfront, which was impressively lit and designed by the HOMEWORKS Team along with Studio 7 and Glow Lighting. Winning Architects Piotr Armatys and Grech&VinciArchitecture&Design designed a concept for the evening using over 200 cardboard boxes donated by AMC. Special Guests Parliamentary

ARCHITECTURAL AWARDS HW

Kevin Gerada (Aluserv), Stephen Ciantar (Hydrolectric)

Editor Lisa Borain and Architect Richard England

Lisa Borain and Architect Edwin Mintoff

The Honourable Dr Michael Falzon

Winning Architect of Best Restoration Joseph Bondin (JB Architects & Civil Engineers) and MEPA Chairman, Vince Cassar

Winning Architect for Most Innovative Build category Chris Briffa, Anna Andronchyk, Interior Designer Penny Apap Brown

Architect Patrick Calleja (Architects Studio), Architect Alberto Miceli Farrugia (AP), Engineer Helga Pizzuto

Winning Architect for Best Residential Spatial Design category Piotr Armatys and HOMEWORKS Stylist Monika Rutishauser

Installation Architects Simon Grech (Grech&VinciArchit ecture&Design), Piotr Armatys, Elisa Camilleri (Grech& VinciArchitecture&Design), Robert Ellul (JB Architects & Civil Engineers), and Assistant Architect Matthew Seychell (JB Architects & Civil Engineers)

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Best wishes and thanks to all our readers. A special thanks to all the suppliers, contributors, and homeowners that continue to support HOMEWORKS, enabling the team to keep producing magazines that bring readers inspiration, improvement and style!

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SPACES HW

This issue’s homes all depict celebrating Christmas in completely different styles. We begin with Monika Rutishauser’s home in Floriana on page 024. See Christmas with Charisma the the HOMEWORKS stylist’s quirky and fun styling. Interior Designers Carlo & Stefania Schembri take Christmas on a whole new level in a tremendous 200 year-old townhouse in Rabat on page 040. New interior designer Sean Cassar brings HOMEWORKS an extremely interesting new build on top of 4th century catacombs in Rabat on page 064. The Austrian Rattasits family bravely embark on a massive renovation in Valletta on page 076 while an equally impressive renovation in Cospicua is featured on page 082. 023

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CHRISTMAS

WITH CHARISMA SPATIAL DESIGNER MONIKA RUTISHAUSER WELCOMES HOMEWORKS INTO A QUIRKY WORLD OF CHRISTMAS AT HER FLORIANA HOME

Photography: Alan Carville Styling: Monika Rutishauser Words: Lisa Borain

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hen this couple decided that Malta was the spot to settle, Spatial Designer Monika Rutishauser and her partner set about looking for an old apartment with Maltese character. They envisioned old patterned cement tiles, high ceilings, and lots of light. They wanted to be within a central location, yet quiet area. They hoped for a space that wasn’t over more than two levels with sea views and big rooms. Further to this, they didn’t want an alreadyperfect place so that they could work on it, introducing their own personalities to the home. Monika, “A friend of ours had told us that there were some places in Floriana with huge potential at attractive prices, overlooking the sea. So we went walking around, looking out for sale signs on apartments that looked interesting. Then we saw this one.

The couple’s main requirement was an old apartment with Maltese character, offering old patterned cement tiles, high ceilings, and lots of light

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The couple enjoy being home and inviting people over for meals and visits. The large kitchen accommodates Monikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love of cooking, while it overlooks the dining area with a view

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“When we first stepped inside the apartment we were slightly shocked, as it had been empty for 30 years. There wasn’t a kitchen or bathrooms, while the wooden windows and Maltese balconies were in a poor state. However, I immediately fell in love with the Maltese tiles and the high ceilings, while my partner went for the sea view and outlook to the villages in the South. There was a lot of potential, but we knew that it would be a lot of work.” In the beginning, the couple had to keep to a certain budget, which allowed them to take care of fixing the basics: electricity, wiring, the replacement of some water pipes, installing a kitchen and bathroom, and whitewashing the rooms. Under dedicated supervision, this took them just over four months. No further major additions were carried out, since the couple is still saving to implement the next steps they’ve been dreaming about. It’s the styled details (Monika’s forte) that make this house look so great. The couple began by bringing in some of their favourite furniture pieces over from Switzerland, but then brought in more local additions gradually. “We also rescued some beautiful pieces of furniture from being thrown out as rubbish. We had them restored so that they work well within the space.” As a Spatial Designer, it’s very important to Monika that the design suits the couple’s lifestyle and living situation. “I like having pieces around me with personal memories and a story behind them. Beyond that, it’s paramount to find a way for all the people living in the house to be happy. I like functionality and the flexibility to change or adjust the space. With this house I had to consider how to deal with the high rooms (some are 4.2m, others 5.6m).”

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The couple enjoy being home and inviting people over for meals and visits. The large kitchen accommodates Monika’s partner’s love of cooking, while Monika enjoys the open-plan workspace she created. An extra room is for frequently visiting friends and family, which has increased over the years due to the comfortable apartment within the central location of Floriana.

“After living in a house you start getting to know the rooms better; the space, the light, temperature, humidity, and the overall way all the rooms work together as one. As we go along, we add small things to build up the overall feel.” The home has many faces. In summer Monika enjoys the breezy roof terrace, watching the harbour and dock activity. 035

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“In summer we often have nightly fireworks displays that never fail to amaze and add life to the setting. In winter I like to be in our big drawing room relaxing on the sofa with a glass of wine and a book, while lots of candles flicker around me, music flowing, and the fireplace bringing the room its warmth. Also, sitting at the dining room window, looking at the ships and life of the Grand Harbour never fails to please me.” What is Christmas like in the Monika Rutishauser household? “I have a storage box with Christmas decorations that I have collected from different places or received as gifts over the years. I love using them in different, new ways each year. Sometimes I add small decorations to candleholders or use lights I already have. Christmas time brings back memories of when I worked in Russia 13 years ago. I bought a huge box of old Christmas decorations from an old man at a market… I still use them and love to see them around me. It’s the perfect time to liven up the feeling of the house and bring a different spirit of quirky fun into the rooms.” 038

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a whole NEW level >

Christmas is taken to a whole new level in this tremendous two hundred year-old townhouse in Rabat

Photography: Bernard Polidano, Alan Carville Interior Design & Styling: Carlo Schembri, Stefania Schembri Words: Elisabeth Cardona

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The lounge area in the same room as the traditional dining area. Mirror cladding surrounds a large and bold canvas of black and red, while the dark furniture offsets the crimson sofa. The grand pendant lamp gives the room a 30â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s glamour appeal

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The four-metre tall tree is placed in the central 13-metre high courtyard with a large format glass panelled floor. The glass-roofed area interconnects all the ground floor living spaces and upper level rooms

nterior Designers Carlo and Stefania Schembri have set the Christmas theme at a two hundred year-old townhouse in Rabat. It begins with a platinum twigged arch, which frames the striking Flos Taraxacum 88 pendant light by Achille Castiglioni. Deep red poinsettia plants invite visitors in, leading the eye to a glimpse of the overflowing presents beneath the enormous Christmas tree. The four-metre tall tree is placed in the central 13-metre high courtyard with a large format glass panelled floor. The glass-roofed area interconnects all the ground floor living spaces and upper level rooms. Oversized metallic multicoloured plastic balloons and Christmas decorations hang from the ceiling, revealing just how high 13 metres actually is. The little boy of the house, Julian also puts the enormity of the space into perspective, as he runs across the polished glass floor, his little sneakers squeaking. Julianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s younger sister Sophie is in tow, the two figures so tiny against the giant backdrop. View from the sitting room underneath the courtyard

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The sitting room underneath the glass cieling looking up through the courtyard

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The striking Flos Taraxacum 88 pendant light by Achille Castiglioni 050

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The courtyard interconnects all the ground floor living spaces and upper level rooms. 051

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The bright and fun Ligne Roset Togo sofa adds to the vividness of the casual living room, creating a stimulating environment for the children

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Bold use of the colour orange. The casual dining room is situated within comfortable access to the kitchen and overlooks the garden with glass doors that slide completely open

The colours, sparkle and fantastical enormity must be a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s absolute delight. The house overcomes the difficulties of extracting a maintainable and convenient home out of an old townhouse, with each room combining the warmth of classic with a contemporary spin. The epitome of Christmastime cosy, the formal dining room sits next to a come-hither lounge area. The dining room is where the family gets together for Christmas day lunch with every traditional accommodation possible. A complete polar opposite of the dining room is the ultra modern stainless steel kitchen; an example of how the homeowners skilfully balances convenience with lustre. 057

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A dramatic pop of red in the warm and restful study

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In the lounge area, mirror cladding surrounds a large and bold canvas of black and red, while the dark furniture offsets the crimson sofa. The lighting design is flawless, with the grand pendant lamp giving the room a 30’s glamour appeal. It seems 062

as though good times for family and friends must be abundant in this truly remarkable townhouse – particularly at Christmas time, when the house’s (as well as the homeowners’) warmth is brought out.

358, Naxxar Road, B’Kara BKR 9040, Malta Te l : ( + 3 5 6 ) 2 1 4 4 1 3 2 8 | F a x : ( + 3 5 6 ) 2 1 4 4 7 1 8 8 w w w. b a t h r o o m d e s i g n . c o m . m t

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THEN & NOW

HOMEWORKS VISITS ONE OF NEW INTERIOR DESIGNER SEAN CASSARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FIRST PROJECTS - A NEW BUILD OVER 4TH CENTURY CATACOMBS IN RABAT Interior Design Sean Cassar, Design Hub Styling Monika Rutishauser Photography Tonio Lombardi Words Elisabeth Cardona

On one side of the main open plan living space upon entrance, there is a timber wall which continues down to the flooring, right down into the wall of the catacombs. On the other side of this room is a directional area in concrete, which is in keeping with the natural raw material look and feel, while also bringing out the warmth of the other side. Styling credits: Faux fur blanket from Butlers | Mink cushion from Next Home | Grey wolly twist from Butlers | Rug from Next Home | Glasses and carafe from Butlers | Decorative plate and bowl from Butlers | Whisky book from Butlers | Faux fur cushion from Next Home | Knitted stocking from Butlers | Plate from Butlers | Decoration from Butlers | White and stag head candles from Butlers

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he homeowner of this extremely unique Rabat house was completely unaware that he was building on top of catacombs. Interior Designer Sean Cassar was underway with the construction phase design when they found the seemingly never-ending subterranean gallery. They went to Heritage Malta who explored it, cleaned it up, and removed all the found historical items. The homeowner agreed to the deal that the catacombs would be accessible to Heritage Malta, and that they could be used as wished, but nothing can be changed structurally. Catacombs are a complex of interconnected, underground Roman cemeteries that were in use up to the 4th century AD, since Roman law prohibited burials within the city. Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s underground architecture tends to be a result of indigenous development, since it was barely

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Catacombs are a complex of interconnected, underground Roman cemeteries that were in use up to the 4th century AD, since Roman law prohibited burials within the city. Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s underground architecture tends to be a result of indigenous development, since it was barely influenced by overseas traditions. The catacombs are extremely helpful to bodies, such as Heritage Malta, since they offer an accurate reflection of the type of urban culture and social organisation enjoyed in Roman and Byzantine Melite.

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HW SPACES Interior Designer Sean Cassar: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The beauty of this site is in the play of the past and the present. We definitely wanted to create a way of expressing the intense history of this space. I wanted it to feel like we gashed into the ground and the materials have poured down into the catacombs.â&#x20AC;?

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Features still remain in the catacombs, which depict the comingling of religious rites of the Ancient Romans. Styling note: Decorative plate, LED tea lights, Wine glasses, Carafe, Bowl, Candle holder for wine bottles, Wine bottle shaped pepper mill from Butlers Dining room styling credits: Gift bags, Silver trees, Hanging decorations, Hale bopp, White candles and candle plate, Carafe, Wine glasses, Silver plate, Napkins, Deer napkin rings, Coasters, Table runner, Five-arm candelabra, Owl, Deer candleholder, Calendar, Wall art landscape, Three-tier cake stand from Butlers | Framed wall art, deer canvas, tea light holder from Next Home 071

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Interior Designer Sean Cassar created an up-lit textured wall to add interest to the small guest bathroom. Here, Perfume bottles, Feather tree, Canvas Ballerina, Picture frame, Angel tea light holder and Hand towel from Next Home Initially the staircase was entirely made out of concrete. Now, the main structural member of the staircase is offset to the wall to increase light as much as possible, which also creates a fun aspect to it

According to UNESCO, “The changing nature of Malta’s living urban centres was in fact paralleled in the way in which these underground centres for the dead were planned out and executed. A case in point is the co-mingling of religious rites that may be identified within the Rabat catacombs, which includes clear references to Christianity, to pagan practices and to Judaism. A remarkable feature is the co-existence of these different religions within the same locality, reflecting the actual creative co-habitation of these different cultures within Late Roman society - a fact which is well documented in the ancient classical sources. This ‘mixed’ feature of the Maltese catacombs is rarely equaled anywhere else in the Mediterranean. In spite of their communal nature, the Rabat catacombs may still be perceived as agglomerates of individual family burial units. This is a key characteristic of all Maltese catacombs, retaining a strong family connection, contrary to the general Late Roman trend of developing catacombs along purely communal considerations. Although lacking the sophistication of the catacombs of Rome, the Maltese catacombs are excellent documents of the changing cultural, artistic and social climates of the Mediterranean world in the centuries going from the 3rd to the Centuries AD. This enormous resource of archaeological and cultural information may be tapped through the proper understanding of the various art-forms, catacomb designs, inscriptions, funerary and skeletal evidence contained by such catacombs.” 073

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Wreath from Butlers | LED lights in wreath from Next Home, Lit Santa sign from Next Home | HO HO HO sign from Next Home

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All table accessories from Butlers | LED lights on railing from Next Home

Instead of trying to conceal this rich historical element, Sean urged the homeowner to make a feature out of it. He devised the idea of making a cellar out of one of the underground rooms, made accessible by a removable glass platform. This way one of the catacomb rooms would be functional, it could be seen from above, and it would always be easily accessible to archaeologists at any given time. On one side of the main open plan living space upon entrance, there is a timber wall which continues down to the flooring, right down into the wall of the catacombs. On the other side of this room is a directional area in concrete, which is in keeping with the natural raw material look and feel, while also bringing out the warmth of the other side. Sean, “The beauty of this site is in the play of the past and the present. We definitely wanted to create a way of expressing the intense history of this space. I wanted it to feel like we gashed into the ground and the materials have poured down into the catacombs.” Initially the staircase was all concrete, but one of the concrete beams on the sixth

riser was too low and was something of a hazard. This gave Sean the perfect excuse to propose a staircase made from steel, timber and glass, where an interesting model feature would greet visitors upon entrance. The lighter structure would also help to flush light through to the large skylight above. The main structural member of the staircase is offset to the wall to increase light as much as possible, which also creates a fun element to the staircase. The designer incorporated a couple of landings and played with riser heights to ensure that through the sections and elevation, even a seven-foot person wouldn’t hit their head. The materials chosen for the staircase are in keeping with the raw and natural feel Sean has created throughout. He also wanted to incorporate as much glass as possible to again, circulate light - all the landings are in glass for this reason. The hand rails are made of steel in a playful design. “I wanted to create a floating sort of feeling - seamless, jointless. The materials throughout the space all tie in together. For instance, the walnut on the staircase is the same as that found on the kitchen work top. The steel continues in the staircase outside. The glass is found on the floor and in the staircase.”

The biggest challenges? “The staircase was a design challenge because we had to make the weight of the other materials hold and support the whole structure as a person climbs up and down it. Also the glass on the access to the catacomb in the living room - I had to make sure that I kept within the budget, but I also had to make it safe and look good, too. As for how to decorate such a modern and old house for Christmas? Stylist Monika Rutishauser says, “The actual living room space is warm, so I used copper, gold, tea lights, a faux fur blanket and cushion, as well as a rug to encourage that warm feeling. Hanging some decoration from the ceiling is a great alternative to a Christmas tree. I love these stars from Butlers - they are really easy to assemble as well. The silver offers a sparkling rich effect in the dining room. Here I combined it with white and a bit of colour. You get a nice effect if you choose some Christmas decorations that aren’t too heavy to hang from the pendant light. Bedrooms don’t need much decorating, so I simply hung light decorations from the ceiling, and placed an LED Christmas tree next to the bed.”

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IENN ALLETT meets

The Austrian Rattasits family bravely embarked on a massive renovation on St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Street. Now, the family happily resides in this vivid home with exceptional character

Words: Guy Laguens Photographs: Tonio Lombardi

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“Our advice to anyone renovating a place in Malta for the first time would be to buy something with existing permits, or have a lot of time and patience!”

The 12-metre high open-storied wall, as seen from the ground floor upon entrance

hen Christoph and Gerlinde Rattasits moved to Malta because of Christoph’s job, the couple began their property hunt not knowing exactly what they were looking for. They viewed houses of character in Zebbug, old townhouses in Sliema and even new apartments in all areas of the island. After seeing enough to figure out what kind of home they wanted (something old and unconverted), they started looking in Valletta. Gerlinde. “We were so impressed by the city: the palazzos, the churches, the bastions, the atmosphere, the culture, the theatre… When we decided on Valletta, it was definite. We knew that this was where we wanted to live.” The renovation of the old house took place in several stages. The first step happened in 2004 and took about nine months. The walls had to be scraped, while concrete walls that were built in the 1950s and 60s had to be removed altogether. The house had to be brought back to shell form and then started again. The electricity and drainage was done again from scratch, while new walls and rooms were built. The couple also opted to install new flooring in the old Maltese style.

A fusion of Viennese patterns and colours with old Maltese architecture and materials. To the photograph’s right, ample light comes in through the skylight roofing the courtyard

The second stage of the renovation was done about five years ago, which was the construction of an extension on the former roof. The last stage was three years ago when the couple decided to fully build the second floor: a new staircase leading up to the roof, a huge room for their daughter, and on top – a swimming pool with a roof terrace. “This was so much work, but worth it because the view from the roof is just wonderful!” 079

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The formal dining room, in which a lot of entertaining takes place. The furniture pieces and grand chandelier are Austrian, while the wall colour, as well as the layout of the room was inspired by Viennese palaces

The large space of the home caters well to the needs of everyone in the family. The children play different musical instruments, so the couple is thankful that there is enough space to allow for it, otherwise it would be uncomfortably loud in one room. “It’s great to have so much space; the kids love to play hide and seek around the house and with the two staircases (one new and an old garigor) it’s a lot of fun. The house is also great for entertaining and big parties are not a problem at all.” Gerlinde’s favourite spaces of the house are the sala on the first floor, the entire downstairs area and the roof terrace. “In summer we have a lot of barbeques up there and we spend lazy Sunday afternoons by the pool. We have a perfect view of the fireworks festival, which is great because I just love fireworks.” The couple don’t hesitate when asked what their biggest obstacle was. “We have quite a lot of experience from refurbishing apartments in Vienna, but Malta is definitely 080

different. In Austria you have a clear building scheme with unmistakable rules and regulations. You know what can be done and what can’t, and when you apply for a permit within the given parameters, the permit is granted in a matter of a few weeks. Here it took ages to get the necessary permits (all together three years!) and we are still waiting for another approval for small changes. Our advice to anyone renovating a place in Malta for the first time would be to buy something with existing permits, or have a lot of time and patience!” Now that the couple have experienced life in Valletta for a few years, they wouldn’t want to live anywhere else on the island. “It’s a fantastic place to live. We don’t need a car for shopping, going to the cinema or going out for dinner; it’s never more than a ten-minute walk. I love Valletta at night, as it’s so quiet and the street lamps create such a nice, cosy atmosphere. Also, you have most of the events going on in Valletta – the jazz festival, Notte Bianca, wine festivals, the fireworks festival, several festas and the arts festival – all of this is at our doorstep. It’s truly fantastic.”

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The informal dinning room, open plan with the kitchen.

The Egyptian inspired master bedroom

Apart from the difficult time it took to get there, the family is clearly happy with the outcome of their renovation. When gazing up at the 12 metre-high wall in the glass roofed courtyard, hearing the sound of a violin and saxophone being practiced simultaneously, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s evident that this is a family comfortable in their living environment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a little slice of Vienna right here in Valletta. 081

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Home-purchasing world travellers Jim Dunn and Arthur Whieldon chose this ancient and inspiring palazzino in Cospicua as their home base. PHOTOGRAPHY: TONIO LOMBARDI WORDS: LISA BORAIN STYLING: PENNY APAP BROWN & LORAINE CALLUS

Christmas tree and baubles from Christmas Palace, fireplace mantle piece from Alistair Flower Shop, chocolates from Marks and Spencer

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“Vision is important, not only when buying any property, but particularly when you’re refurbishing an older one. It’s the perfect opportunity to create your ideal home.”

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A major part of the refurbishment costs went into brushing the stonework down from top to bottom, inside and out

im lays it on the table straight off the bat: “Arthur and I suffer from an addiction; buying and refurbishing interesting (usually older) houses in any part of the world that takes our fancy. We have been together in life and business for over 45 years and during that time we have owned 38 houses, most of which we have lived in. Apart from the UK, we have bought and refurbished houses in Ireland, Majorca, Provence and now of course, in Malta.

“So about three years ago we landed here off a Silversea cruise ship and had a wander around stunning Valletta. We fell in love with the architecture, the people and I have to say the property prices, which to us were very reasonable. Over the following year we came back a number of times and looked at a wide range of properties but decided that we wanted to live among the local Maltese and in an older house. Cospicua ticked all the right boxes.”

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Exciting patterned wallpaper sets the backdrop for the eclectic master bedroom. A mix of eastern and European pieces create a whimsically theatrical tone Red, pink and white cushions, bedding and throw from One Two One Interiors. White flowers on Buddhas from Alistair Flower Shop

The palazzino was sold to the couple by the estate agent as “skilfully refurbished”, but in actual fact was a shell with no toilets, water, electricity or kitchen – nothing in fact, except four walls, a leaky roof and floors supported by worn out beams. Jim and Arthur started from scratch, which wasn’t too much of a problem to them, as they enjoy making their individual mark on a home. Where did they begin? “Vision is important, not only when buying any property but particularly when you’re refurbishing an older property. It’s the perfect opportunity to create your ideal home.” Via UK friends’ recommendations, the homeowners met with Interior Designer Kenneth Tanti for architecture and building advice, as well as eventual management of the project. The couple brought a great deal of old furniture from the UK and Spain, which dictated the style they required and liked. So they also needed Kenneth’s help to source, co-ordinate and add. Later on, the interior designer added on the finishing touches, such as wallpaper and individual pieces of furniture, which give the space that wow factor.

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“We certainly don’t regret going with Kenneth as our Project Manager. We were new to the island, we didn’t know our way around, we didn’t know anyone and he was a great help to us throughout the project. We were flying back and forth so it was imperative to have someone reliable on site every day.” When asked about their lifestyle, the instant reply was that it’s completely hedonistic. “We are happy to pay for comfort, style and elegance to our taste. We like to entertain. We enjoy having guests to stay for weekends and when you live in sunny places like Malta you get inundated, which is nice for us. So we had to take all of these points into account when deciding on the final design.”

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“We had to compromise slightly with the sizes of the bedrooms in order to carve out a bathroom for our guests’ privacy. Bathrooms down the hall are just not on these days!”

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SPACES HW The couple’s overall intention for the home was to retain an original Maltese townhouse in as far as they could recreate it in Cospicua, but they also wanted all four bedrooms to have all the modern conveniences, as well as en-suite bathrooms. “So many developers seem to miss this. We had to compromise slightly with the sizes of the bedrooms in order to carve out a bathroom for our guests’ privacy. Bathrooms down the hall are just not on these days!” To make the most of the essence of the original palazzino, a lot of effort went into ascertaining that specific authentic aspects were kept intact – for instance, the original floor tiles were kept and any new tiles that had to make up for wear and tear were custom-made from original patterns. In two of the principal rooms this meant lifting the old tiles, replacing the floor underneath then re-laying. Provisions also had to be made for central heating, air conditioning, contemporary lighting and wiring of all sorts, while maintaining the ancient look of the house. This required creative ways of hiding cabling and plumbing pipe-work. The couple has gained pieces of information about the house from neighbours, one of which is that the cellars are 17th century, which prompted the homeowners to enliven the beautiful original stone walls both outside and inside. A major part of the refurbishment cost went into painstakingly brushing the stonework down from top to bottom, inside and out, and re-pointing. Now with carefully planned lighting, this stonework looks effectively stunning in the evenings. Further to this, “as it turned out, our ‘skilfully refurbished’ (agent speak) house needed a new roof and almost every beam in the house had to be changed, otherwise we were likely to have the whole lot collapse on us during our first dinner party….” Traditionally, the couple likes to think that all parts of their homes are their favourite areas, but in Malta there’s no doubt that it has to be the central courtyard on the ground floor. “We practically live out there for most of the year – and of course the roof terrace with its unrivalled views across to Valletta is another favourite place, particularly for siestas. I am also particularly happy with what we have achieved in the dining and drawing rooms in terms of elegance and comfort. We installed the two open fires in these rooms…perfect for winter evenings.”

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D E C O R AT I O N This issue is full of design inspiration, beginning with Monikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rutishauserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Luxury Yuletide (page 092). Emma Armstrong brings us Christmas Twinkle on page 096, while Interior Designer Greta Apap Bologna designs a gold and red spread on page 100. Some cool Christmas ideas on page 104. Plan the perfect lunch party on page 110. The Night Before Christmas on page 120 inspires a cosy, fire-side setting. 091

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Luxury Monika Rutishauser’s

Yuletide

SUMPTUOUS FABRICS, MUTED GOLDS, DEEP WOODS, AND TOYS FOR THE CONNOISSEUR Styling Monika Rutishauer Photography Tonio Lombardi Shoot Location The Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux

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GLASS ANGELS FROM MDINA GLASS

LEATHER HOLDALL FROM HENRI GIFT BOUTIQUE

CUSHIONS FROM CAMILLERIPARISMODE

SET OF TWO GOLD LEAF ORNAMENTS FROM CAMILLERIPARISMODE

FIND IT camilleriparismode, 54, Triq Santa Katarina, Rabat. Pjazza Annunzjata, Sliema. Tel: 2010 2030. www.camilleriparismode.com Henri Gift Boutique, 23, Triq Villegaignon, Mdina. Tel: 2010 6307. www.henri.com.mt Mdina Glass Outlets, throughout Malta & Gozo. Crafts Village, Ta’Qali, Attard. Tel: 2141 5786. Petrolea, Triq il-Wied ta’ L’Msida, Msida. Tel: 2123 4501 / 2123 5487. www.petroleamalta.com.mt Raphael Azzopardi, 6, Triq l-Uqija, L-Ibrag, Swieqi. Tel: 2137 3812. www.raphaelazzopardi.com ALABASTER CHESS SET FROM HENRI GIFT BOUTIQUE

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Stem Interiors, The Quay, Ix-Xatt Ta’Xbiex, Ta’Xbiex. Tel: 2133 2019. facebook: Stem Interiors

THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF LIGHT, THE GLOW THAT ILLUMINATES, AND THE GLARE THAT OBSCURES.

James Thurber

Black Pig Restuarant, Valletta - Designed by: The Workshop Architecture & Design - Lighting: Light Design Solutions Ltd. - Photographer: Alan Carville

A | 38/1, Emmanuel Schembri Str, Birkirkara, BKR 1810 - T | 2149 6843 E | info@lds.com.mt - W | www.lds.com.mt

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Emma Armstrongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Christmas Twinkle Stylist: Emma Armstrong Photography: Allen Venables

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Candles and fairy lights create a twinkling Christmassy effect. Aubergine, chartreuse green and pewter were used for the colour scheme and the celebrated frangipani fairy lights set off the scene. A sunburst mirror with a convex centre and a chartreuse pendant lamp tie in the look and complete the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;wow factorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

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Greta Apap Bolognaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Gold & Red Christmas Spread Stylist: Greta Apap Bologna Photography: Allen Venables

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Items from Camilleriparismode and One Two One Interiors.

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The gold and red are easily festive and would appear traditional if not for the extensive use of white and crystal. Contemporary touches create a classic look and feel, without appearing ultra modern - the result is an elegant setting. 102

Arcade Street, Paola Tel: 2011 7900 www.banjuboutique.com facebook.com/BanjuBoutiqueLtd

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Woodland Winter Wonderland HOMEWORKS brings you more decorating ideas with a mix of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festive and interiors trends

ALPINE CHIC Playing up the natural aspects of Christmas with natural green and an abundance of wood is growing in popularity. Inspired by cold mountainous woods, alpine colours are earthy greens and browns Items from Alistair, BoConcept, Fino, and Sherries 104

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Styling: HOMEWORKS Team with Alistair, BoConcept, Fino, One Two One Interiors, Retroforma, Sherries Garden Centre, VCT Lighting Design Photography: Tonio Lombardi Special Thanks to: Verdala International School Crafts: Anne Marie Quercia

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ICE IS NICE Icy blue tones combined with darker shades of blue create a glacier feel this Christmas, reminding us of a crystalline winter wonderland Items from Alistair, BoConcept, Fino, and Sherries

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SPARKLE & SHINE This year, different shades of mustard and yellow set the holiday apart from its more staid origin, while retaining the comfort of tradition. There will 108

always be a need for glitz â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a little contemporary mixed in with the traditional and natural styles. Items from Alistair, BoConcept, Fino, and Sherries

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Christmas

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Lisa Borain’s

LUNCH PARTY >

Photography: Alan Carville Styling: Lisa Borain & Troika Zammit Fresh floral: Bjorn Borg, Floreal Home

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There’s no better time of year to entertain than Christmas. HOMEWORKS brings you ideas for details that will put your guests into the festive mood

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Christmas fresh floral can be simple and elegant – mix white roses with snowed conifer branches

Candles are key to a cosy and atmospheric Christmas – use a variety of different candlesticks on a tray to get a relaxed chic look

DECORATE! Decorating is not difficult to do during the festive season, since there is so much available for Christmas. Since there is ample opportunity to use a wide variety of colours, Christmas fresh floral can be simple and elegant – white roses, snowed conifer branches and twigs. Place them in a basket or in a clear vase to keep the focus on the arrangement itself.

Nestled pinecones in a basket, clustered among eucalyptus leaves, sprigs of Cedar and Juniper, which enhance the feminine and frosty colours of the arrangement

Create wintry looking pieces by filling a combination of vintage and contemporary vases with sparse white flowers. These are great to place on any shelf or side table, but also for a different looking centrepiece, they can be lined down the middle of a table. Candles are key to a cosy and atmospheric Christmas. Use a variety of different candlesticks on a tray to get a relaxed chic look. This year, there are two sets of Christmas tree decorating colour palattes. The first is light green, white and silver, which creates a toned down Northern look, reminiscent of the traditional Christmas greeting card snowy scenes. The second is a more traditional red with white and silver, creating a fun, quirky look.

Items from One Two One Interiors, and Floreal Home

This year’s Christmas tree decorations are Northern inspired – frosted branches and simple decorations in basic shapes

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Often overlooked, sound is a large part of creating the perfect Christmas environment. Christmas carols usually evoke good memories and create a cheerful atmosphere. As with all else, Christmas carols don’t have to be traditional ones – there are a lot of different fun and modern Zinc bucketcarol (€6.40) from THE DIY CENTRE • Below: vases from left Christmas albums these to right: Large and small vases days. We recommend Silent by Sia (large, €39 / small, €25) from FLOREAL HOME • Green flowers (€7.50) from FLOREAL HOME Nights by Chet Baker, Crystal •Lewis Sela Holiday!, vase (€45.99) ZARA HOME • Bamboo lantern (€22.99) Yulefrom Struttin-Blue from • Kissimmee vase (€19.99) from ZARA HOME NoteZARA ChristHOME by Va-Yule Struttin’, •The Green & white flowers (€8.90) from Most Wonderful Time of the FLOREAL HOME • Sia vase (€68) from FLOREAL HOME of Joy Year by Take 6, and Songs and Peace: Deluxe Edition by SETTING TABLE Yo-Yo Ma, THE Alison Krauss, James Taylor and Diana Krall.

Items THP DIY (starting Centre, All twig from tree decorations from Florealfrom Home andLUXURIES Zara Home €3.50) LITTLE •

A few branches can serve as a fun, quirky tree

Create wintry looking pieces by filling a combination of vintage and contemporary white vases with sparse twigs or flowers. These are great to place on any shelf or side table, but also for a different looking centrepiece, they can be lined down the middle of a table

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The great thing about table settings is that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re something that can be organised and finished well ahead of time. Leaving it until the last minute can be stressful and it allows problems to enter. One of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colour palettes is a lovely cauliflower blue mixed with white and earthy neutrals. Pops of natural floral on the table create an interesting rustic aspect to an elegant setting. To make things simple, a good recipe for a serene elegant base is to include clear or crystal glassware, white, silver or glass candlesticks and flower vases, a white or cream-coloured tablecloth, napkins and candles. Looks can then be changed with different accessories, such as what was done here, illustrating how the same table can look very different with small changes.

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Items from BHS, Floreal Home, One Two One Interiors, and Zara Home 114

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HW DECORATION GET THE DRINKS READY There’s nothing cosier or welcoming than the smells of Christmas and of course, a good lunch party can’t be so without a good lunch. If the atmosphere is right, your guests will want to take it all in and enjoy it, meanwhile anticipating the lunch to come. Creating a special festive cocktail will add to the immediate celebratory spirit and put your guests in a cheerful mood. It’s worth keeping in mind that not everyone will enjoy drinking cocktails so having a beautifully decorated ice bucket with good wine chilling will make guests feel that they are welcome to relax.

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Also, another thing to keep in mind is that if you’re a one-man host, cocktails may not be the best option, especially if they need to be freshly made. If it’s a more casual dinner party, you can always nominate a friend to be the official cocktail maker. There are so many cocktails that can be made, but to really get people into the yuletide mood, serve up this different take on the traditional Christmassy egg nog.

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Items from Cose Casa, Floreal Home, Marks & Spencer, One Two One Interiors, and Zara Home

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EGG NOG MARTINI Serves 8

Ingredients 224g sugar 55g corn starch 1tsp ground nutmeg 2l whole milk 6 large egg yolks 720ml brandy

THE METHOD Set a large fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl. Place the bottom of the bowl in an ice bath; set aside. Off heat, in a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, corn starch and nutmeg. Gradually whisk in 1 litre of milk, taking care to incorporate the corn starch. Whisk in the egg yolks.

Whisking constantly, cook over a medium heat until the first large bubble sputters (10 to 12 minutes). Reduce the heat to low; cook, whisking constantly, one minute more. Remove from heat; immediately pour through the sieve into the bowl. Stir in the remaining litre of milk. Let it cool completely in the bowl still set in the ice bath. Just before serving, stir in the brandy and ladle into glasses. Garnish with nutmeg.

FIND IT: COSE CASA LTD, 77, Three Churches Street, Balzan. Tel: 2144 7672/3. info@cosecasa.com / www.cosecasa.com

THP DIY CENTRE, 11, Tigne Street, Tigne, Sliema. Tel: 2131 5214. colinzammit@waldonet.net.mt

FLOREAL HOME, Parish Street, Naxxar. Tel: 2747 0744. florealhome@melita.com

TOWER SUPERMARKET, High Street, Sliema. Tel 2134 5586. www.towersupermarket.com

ONE TWO ONE INTERIORS, 21st September Avenue, Naxxar. Tel: 2142 2948/9. Qui Si Sana, Sliema. Tel: 2132 3155/65. www.onetwoone.eu

ZARA HOME, 1,Tower Road, Sliema. Tel: 2258 2900. www.zarahome.com

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THE ATRIUM, Bypass Mriehel, Mriehel. Tel: 2147 0000. info@

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Twas The

Night Before

Christmas... ...when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there...

Photography: Alan Carville Styling: Lisa Borain & Troika Zammit Special thanks to Claire Kennington & Nick Dyson

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Items from Form, Gajet, Qronfla, One Two One Interiors, The Atrium, and The Rug Gallery

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Mosta Road, Lija LJA 9010, Malta • Tel: +00356 2141 5648 • E-mail: info@lawrencefenech.com • Web: www.lawrencefenech.com

CHRISTMAS FEATURE HW

The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap. When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer. “Now Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid!, On Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!” And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound. He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

Items from Calamatta Garden Centre, Form, One Two One Interiors, and Zara Home

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M.DEMAJO (Timbers) Ltd.

LAMINATE PARQUET

ENGINEERED PARQUET

SOLID PARQUET

SOLID WOOD STEPS

OUTDOOR DECKING

Over 30 Colours

Oak, American Walnut, Cherry, Ash & Maple

Teak, Iroko, Oak, Bamboo, Wenge & more

Iroko

Solid Wood - IPE, Teak, WPC

Kaindl is going up the

wall.

As specialists in the provision and supply of laminate parquet representing the world-renowned Austrian brand Kaindl we offer an extensive range of top quality laminates in various textures and colours as well as matching skirting. Now also with the wallsystem floor up which allows floor boards to be installed on almost every wall. Perfectly simple. Simply Perfect.

A member of the

M.DEMAJO group

CHRISTMAS FEATURE HW

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight...

“Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight!” FIND IT: CALAMATTA LANDSCAPES, Triq Il-Wied tal Ghargur, San Gwann. Tel: 2138 0637 / 2138 2818. info@calamattalandscapes.com / www.calamattalandscapes.com FORM LTD, Tirq Il-Wied, B’Kara. Tel: 2144 6000. www.formltd.com GAJET, The Plaza Shopping Centre, Level 3, Suite 1, Bisazza Street, Sliema. Tel: 2132 4272. Energy Complex, Valletta. Tel: 2122 5066. Antoine De Paul Square, Paola. Tel: 2180 1794. Corner Stone Complex, Mosta. Tel: 2142 0365. St Julians (opposite Baystreet). Tel: 2138 1105. www,gajetmalta.com

ONE TWO ONE INTERIORS, Vjal il-Wihed u Ghoxrin Ta’Settembru, Naxxar. Tel: 2142 2948/9. Ix-Xatt, Sliema. Tel: 2132 3155/65. www.onetwoone.eu THE ATRIUM, Mriehel Bypass, Mriehel. Tel: 2147 0000. info@theatrium.com.mt / www.theatrium.com.mt THE RUG GALLERY, Ix-Xatt, Sliema. Tel: 2133 4191. www.rugs.com.mt ZARA HOME, 1,Triq Ir-Torri, Sliema. Tel: 2258 2900. www.zarahome.com

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O’ Christmas Tree,

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O’ Christmas Tree…

WHETHER BUYING A REAL OR FAUX TREE, THERE ARE DIFFERENT CHRISTMAS TREE TYPES TO CHOOSE FROM, EACH ONE WITH ITS OWN ADVANTAGES. HOMEWORKS GUIDES YOU THROUGH FOUR OF THE MOST POPULAR EVERGREENS TO HELP YOU FIND THE PERFECT TREE FOR YOUR HOME AND STYLE

Scotch Pine

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Douglas Fir

Cypress

White Pine

CHRISTMAS TREES HW The custom of the Christmas tree can be traced back to the 16th century, but was developed in early modern Germany during the 19th century. In 1816, the princess of Vienna introduced the tree, and the custom spread across Austria in the following years. In France, the first Christmas tree was introduced in 1840 by the duchesse d’Orléans. In Denmark, the first confirmed tree was lit in 1808 by countess Wilhemine of Holsteinborg. It was she who told the story of the first Danish Christmas tree to the Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen in 1865. As a result, he published a fairy-tale called The Fir-Tree in 1844. In 1800, the queen of Britain introduced a Christmas tree at a party she hosted, but the custom did not at first spread much beyond the royal family. As a child, Queen Victoria was familiar with the custom and a tree was placed in her room every Christmas. After her marriage to her German cousin Prince Albert, by 1841 the custom became even more widespread throughout Britain. In less than ten years, the placement of Christmas trees in affluent homes became widespread. They were slow to spread down the social scale in Britain the way they had in Germany. A report from Berlin in 1858 contrasts the situation with the phrase, “Every family has its own”. Today, Christmas trees are generally evergreen conifers, such as spruce, pine or fir, with each type useful for different decorative styles. To the right, the most common and widely available types have been identified

Price Albert brought the Christmas tree from his native Germany, which captivated the queen, the country and then the world. Above, the drawing room at Windsor Castle, where the Queen often spent private time after Christmas

1. SCOTCH PINE Its sturdy branches are dense and tightly spaced for those that like a tree packed with decorations. The earthy scent of the real ones will last throughout the holidays.

2. WHITE PINE It retains its long, soft, bluish needles well. However, the flexible branches can sometimes make decorating difficult, and little aroma is emitted from the real ones.

3. DOUGLAS FIR Probably the most popular Christmas tree type with full and thick blue-green foliage, Douglas Firs can take a lot of decorations with strong branches. The real trees are sweet-smelling, but the needles don’t last long on the branches.

4. CYPRESS The feathery, dark-green to gray foliage sets the Cypress tree apart from the others. The silhouette varies from tree to tree, but they’re generally quite tall and slender, which is brilliant for small spaces. The real ones absorb a lot of water and need to be refilled several times throughout the day. The branches support small lights, tinsel, and a few ornaments, but nothing heavy.

TIP: When buying a real tree, make sure it doesn’t have noticeable needle loss, discoloured foliage, a musty odour, or wrinkled bark 127

HW CHRISTMAS TREES FAUX VS. REAL There is nothing more Christmassy then the smell of pine needles. On the other hand, do you really want the hassle of those little needles all over the floor? HOMEWORKS brings you few things to remember when choosing between a real or faux Christmas tree The first thing that many think of when considering buying a real Christmas tree is the lovely scent it releases. The second thing they think of is the mess the dead pine needles leave behind. Artificial trees have become increasingly popular in the last couple of decades, as manufacturers have been able to make them look more and more genuine, as well as making them easier than ever to assemble. For those that don’t have a lot of time on their hands, artificial trees can be extremely convenient, as they can be dismantled and stored from year to year, without the hassle of having to go out and buy a real tree every Christmas. In addition, a major advantage is that artificial Christmas trees don’t have any needles to clean up. Artificial Christmas trees can be set up much earlier and left up longer than real trees and buying artificial helps prevent the cutting down of a live tree. Coarse needles will never prick fingers, so artificial trees are easier to decorate. A lot of artificial trees also tend to have a fuller look. Many think that it’s not ecologically friendly to have a real Christmas tree. However, faux ones are also a concern, as they are made from non-renewable petroleum. Despite them being safer, they can still catch fire, which will cause a release of toxic fumes. Also, artificial trees cannot be recycled; when taken to the landfill they last many years and when burned – again, release toxic fumes.

Probably the most popular Christmas tree type with thick and strong branches that can take a lot of decorations. The real Douglas Firs are sweet-smelling, but the needles don’t last long on the branches. Style credit: Monica Borain

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Apart from the advantage that real Christmas trees smell like real trees, choosing and purchasing one each year can become a family Christmas tradition

QUICK GLANCE: PROS & CONS Real Christmas Trees Pros • • •

Fresh scent More traditional Take in carbon dioxide and other harmful greenhouse gases and release fresh oxygen into the air

Cons • • •

Can be a fire risk Shed needles Can only be left up for a limited time

Faux Christmas Trees Pros

Apart from the advantage that real Christmas trees smell like real trees, choosing and purchasing one each year can become a family Christmas tradition. Real trees are, of course, renewable resources, and most garden centres operate on the principle of re-growing their farm.

• • •

More cost-effective Flame retardant No maintenance necessary and no mess

Cons • • •

Can look synthetic Time required to assemble the tree Requires storage space in the home

However, real Christmas trees are more of a fire hazard than artificial trees, which typically have some flame-retardant qualities. Real trees require the maintenance of consistently cleaning up of the needles. Real trees can also trigger allergies in some cases. An alternative to the traditional looking Christmas tree is to be creative and make a completely different tree yourself. Check out unconventional Christmas tree ideas on the HOMEWORKS (Malta) facebook page to get some entirely fresh ideas.

*Sherries’ real Christmas trees are imported with roots, which means that they will live longer. If taken care of, they can also survive throughout the year. 129

THE BEAUTY OF DESIGN

CHORUS LUX is the perfect design. An elegant, streamlined plate sculpted in the pureness of innovative materials. A flawless technological and artistic expression. The point where design and practicality meet on your wall, creating a blend of harmony and beauty. CHORUS LUX by Gewiss. www.gewiss.com

Choice of White, Grey and Titanium colored switch inserts for maximum colour customazation.

Choice of six decorative plate designs in a combination of materials: Glass, Metal, Wood, Technopolymer and more.

The refined LUX plate is an ageless classic design that can be installed on both British and Continental standard back boxes.

The Chorus range allows you to create a wide variety of functions, thanks to the modular structure of the numerous products offered. In addition to the traditional electromechanical devices (commands, sockets, protection etc.), there are also electronic devices for the command and control of sevices, such as regulators, timers and dimmers. Furthermore, a wide selection of products has been developed for special services and wireless systems. The Chorus range for domestic use has a modular structure on flush-mounting frames up to 12 modules. Surface-mounting and table boxes and plates are included.

85 Triq il-Kappillan Mifsud, Hamrun HMR1855 Tel: 2124 1111 Fax: 2124 3706 Email: info@hydrolectric.com.mt

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 7.30am till 5.00pm Saturday 8.00am till 12.00pm

FOOD NEWS HW

FOODNEWS

HAMPERS TO SET YOUR HEART ON These 2014 must-have hampers will fill you with seasonal spirit... and hunger.

OTTOLENGHI HAMPER 2014

WARM GLOW Get that warm Christmassy feeling every time you lay eyes on Emma Bridgewater’s Christmas Joy mug. It takes half a pint, so your teas, coffees and hot chocolates will go on and on. www.emmabridgewater.co.uk

Ottolenghi, www.ottolenghi.co.uk Includes cakes and biscuits, mulled wine cordial, savoury snacks, chutneys, relishes, and chocolates.

SPECIALITY CHRISTMAS HAMPER

Bill’s, www.bills-shop.co.uk Includes pink lemonade, Champagne truffles, Bill’ s house dressing, breakfast tea, strawberry jam, marmalade, Bill’ s chutney, red wine, milk chocolate, nut oat biscuits, and coffee.

MAGICAL TRIO Harvey Nichols knows how to get everyone in the mood. This year, the Fizz Trio offers three bottles of the store’s best-sellers so that we can indulge in a variety of Prosecco, brut Champagne, and brut rosé Champagne. www.harveynichols.com

CHOCOLATE LOVERS HAMPER

Cocoa Runners, www.cocoarunners.com Includes Madecasee winter spice bar, Marous dark chocolate, Menakao dark chocolate with coca nibs and sea salt, Rozsavolgyi Csokolade dark chocolate, Akesson’s dark chocolate with pink pepper, Dandelion Madagascan chocolate, Duff’s cocoa tea, Grenada Chocolate Company salty-licious bar, Jordi’s chocolate cocoa and coffee beans, and Original Beans mini bars.

ANTICIPATE WITH ADVENT KILNER DISPENSOR It doesn’t only look beautiful, but it’s perfect for mulled wine this Christmas. www.kilnerjar.co.uk

Count down the days to Christmas with Fortnum & Mason’s unique and quaint advent calendars, each one brimming with anticipation for the festivities to come. Each calendar is filled with Christmas surprises to help build the excitement for both children and adults. www.fortnumandmason.com

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YuletideYum Chefs Mark Briffa, Claude Camilleri, Alain Grech, and Joseph Vella bring HOMEWORKS the best of Christmas in a compilation of recipes brought to us throughout the years. Recipes: Mark Briffa (Venus, Bugibba), Claude Camilleri (Margoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s), Alain Grech (Venus, Bugibba), and Joseph Vella (Hilton Malta) Photography: MAS, Alan Carville

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SPICED CHICKEN LIVER PARFAIT WITH CRANBERRY CHUTNEY & TOASTED BRIOCHE Ingredients for liver parfait

Method

500g chicken liver 200ml red wine 1 star anise 2 cloves 1 spring thyme 1 bay leaf 50g sugar butter 200g seasoning

For the parfait, reduce the wine, sugar, herbs and spices to a syrup. In a separate pan fry the livers until pink. Add the livers to the reduction, add the butter and seasoning, then blend in a food processor and pass through a fine sieve. Pour the mix in the desired mould and chill in the fridge. For the chutney, reduce all the ingredients apart from the cranberries to a syrup. Then add the cranberries, cook to a thick chutney and refrigerate.

Ingredients for cranberry chutney 100g 100ml 1 Pinch 200g

sugar water cinnamon stick chilli fresh cranberries

BILL’S WINE RECOMMENDATION: 2013 MEDINA SANGIOVESE – I.G.T. MALTESE ISLANDS “This is a tasty starter that requires a slightly spicy, fruity red wine that will blend well with the soft, rich parfait and the sweet cranberry chutney. This Maltagrown Sangiovese is smooth, easy drinking and fruity with a lovely hint of spice and no strong tannins to overpower the delicate flavours.” 134

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PAN ROASTED FILLET OF BEEF WITH BRUSSEL SPROUTS, PANCETTA & CHESTNUT FRICASSEE Ingredients Fillet of beef 200g brussel sprouts 80g pancetta 80g fresh chestnuts 100ml chicken stock 60ml fresh cream 1/2 lemon juice seasoning

Method Pan fry the beef fillet, season well, and roast in the oven to desired degree. Fry the pancetta until crispy, add the Brussel sprouts and chestnuts, the chicken stock and then reduce. Add the cream and reduce until thick. Season and finish with lemon juice.

BILL’S WINE RECOMMENDATION: 2012 GRAN CAVALIER MERLOT - D.O.K. SUPERIOR MALTA “To accompany this particular fillet of beef, I have chosen a full-bodied, but soft red wine that is not excessively tannic - a gold medal winning Merlot, Gran Cavalier. This barrel-matured, smooth, robust red wine will go perfectly with the beef and help neutralise any saltiness coming from the crispy pancetta.” 135

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GIVE A MASTERPIECE

THIS CHRISTMAS

This Christmas Time, Give Your Special Someone a Modern Masterpiece.

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Behold the Circolo. Its quirky roundness and avant-guard design is especially tailored to serve one purpose: to deliver truly great tasting beverages for you to savour. Perfect for an Espresso, Chai Tea or Frothy Cappuccino, not to mention 17 other delightful beverages. With Circolo, each and every cup is an irresistible masterpiece.

COFFEE IS NOT JUST BLACK

CUISINE & WINE HW

DARK CHOCOLATE & HAZELNUT DELICE WITH FRESH RASPBERRIES & ESPRESSO ICE CREAM Ingredients for the base

100g 100g 50g 20g

roasted hazelnuts bran flakes butter maple syrup

Ingredients for chocolate ganache

70g milk 165g fresh cream 1 whole egg 170g dark chocolate

Method Blend the hazelnuts, bran flakes and add the butter and maple syrup. Boil the milk and cream, add the chocolate and melt, remove from the heat and add the egg. Place the base in desired mould, add the chocolate ganache and leave to set in the fridge. Garnish with fresh raspberries, whole hazelnuts, coffee beans and serve with an espresso ice cream.

BILL’S WINE RECOMMENDATION: 2013 GRAND VIN DE HAUTEVILLE MOSCATO – D.O.K. MALTA LIQUEUR WINE “For this rich, delicious dessert I recommend an equally rich and delicious dessert wine the award winning Grand Vin de Hauteville, made from Malta-grown Moscato grapes. The sweetness of this opulent liqueur wine matches perfectly with the rich dark chocolate, the toasty roasted hazelnuts, the sticky maple syrup and aromatic coffee ice cream.” 137

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“Bless UsLord

... this Christmas, with quietness of mind; Teach us to be patient and always to be kind…”

Chef Mark Briffa from Venus Restaurant creates Christmas culinary perfection to finish off the year. Bill Hermitage from Delicata Winery selects the ideal wine accompaniments Recipes: Chef Mark Briffa, Venus Restaurant, Bugibba Wine Recommendations: Bill Hermitage, Emmanuel Delicata Winery Photography: MAS Styling: Lisa Borain

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From left to right: Wooden candle holders from Next Home, Red napkins by Geneviève Lethu from Form, Pinecone name place holders from Next Home, Green glittery ball candles from Form, Green wine glasses from Next Home, Amber tumblers by Geneviève Lethu from Form, White ceramic plate set from Next Home, Geneviève Lethu cutlery from Form, “WISH” sign from Next Home, Heart wreath from Next Home, Tablecloth burlap material from JB Stores

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POTATO GNOCCHI WITH PARMESAN & ORANGE CREAM & FOIE GRAS Ingredients 180g 100ml 1tsp 30g 80g

potato gnocchi fresh cream orange zest parmesan grated foie gras rock salt freshly ground pepper

Method Bring the cream to a boil and reduce for one minute. Add the orange zest, parmesan and ground pepper, and cook for another two minutes. On low heat, boil the gnocchi in salted water and cook in the sauce for one minute before serving. Cook the foie gras in a very hot pan until itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golden brown. Then sprinkle with the rock salt and freshly ground pepper.

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VENISON FILLET WITH TRUFFLE JUS Ingredients

2x200g venison fillet 4pc asparagus 2pc parsnips 40g cherry tomatoes 15g truffle paste 40ml red wine 60ml meat stock 1ts brown sugar 1ts honey 1ts butter Method Seal the venison in a very hot pan to keep in all the juices. Then cook in an 150 degrees oven for four minutes, and leave to rest for another four minutes before serving. For the parsnips, cook on low heat in a pan with honey, butter, salt and pepper until soft with a nice colour. For the sauce, reduce the red wine with some sugar and add the stock and truffle paste. Continue to reduce the sauce until nice and thick.

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HENRI OPEN WEEK 5 – 14 December 2014

FOR UNIQUE CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

15% OFF EVERYTHING*

From unique fashion accessories, jewellery, ornamental objects and tableware to occasional furniture, works of art, real leather accessories, luxurious scented candles and much more.

Fantastic Christmas gift ideas for him… for her… or for yourself. Check out facebook.com/HenriMalta for more info. *Sale prices not in conjunction with any other offers. Stock items only.

OPEN WEEK OPENING HOURS: 10am – 7pm weekends and Public Holiday (8 December); 10am – 6pm remaining week days HENRI Luxury Gift Boutique, Villegaignon Street, Mdina (next to Palazzo Falson) Tel. [+356] 2010 6307 E. info@henri.com.mt www.henri.com.mt

CUISINE & WINE HW

CHOCOLATE & HAZELNUT CAKE Ingredients for cake mix

240g flour 240g coco powder eggs 8pc 240g sugar 50ml brandy Ingredients for hazelnut ganache

120ml fresh cream 120g hazelnut ground pinch salt 170g soft unsalted butter Method Sieve the flour and coco powder into a bowl and set aside. Separate the four eggs by placing the yolks in one bowl, and whites in another. Begin whisking the yolks with half of the sugar until they’re stiff, and then gently add (one at a time) four whole eggs. Whisk the four egg whites with the remaining sugar, fold the other egg mix into it along with the brandy, flour and coco powder. Do not over fold. Boil the fresh cream and set aside. Mix the hazelnuts and butter with the pinch of salt in a blender until it’s soft, and fold in the cream bit by bit while whisking until smooth. Leave to cool. Spread the hazelnut ganache over the cake and chill before serving. Use some forest fruit for garnish.

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THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS MINCE PIE Recipe: Claude Camilleri (Margoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Ingredients for filling: 500g apples cored and chopped in small cubes 400g raisins 250g sultanas 275g currants 250g candied peel 75g chopped almonds 120ml cognac 1tbsp mixed spice 375g brown sugar 240g suet 2 oranges and lemons grated zest and juice

Method for the filling: Mix all the ingredients, minus the cognac, thoroughly and leave covered with foil at room temperature overnight. Later on the following day put in an oven set at 120C for about three hours.

Method for the pastry:

Method for putting it together:

Sift flour and salt, rub in fats until you get fine crumbs then add enough water to mix to a dough that leaves the sides of the bowl clean. Do not overdo the water. Do not overwork the dough. It is simple enough to be done by hand. Leave the pastry to rest in a polythene bag in the refrigerator for at least half an hour or even overnight.

Fill the pastry with mincemeat. Do not over fill. Average that once the filling melts to a flat level, it does not exceed the edge of the base. Brush the sides of the mince pie bases with the milk and egg mixture and place the top of the pie, pressing gently with either the reverse of the ring cutter or with the lip of a jar. Use a knife to make some little cuts on the surface of the pies. Brush tops with some milk mixed with an egg yolk. Bake for 2025 minutes in an oven pre-heated to 200C.

Roll out the dough and line up the mince pie moulds. A little trick: we first cut the tops using a ring cutter and use the offcuts to which we add some more flour and water to roll out again and do the bases of the mince pies with. This is such a delicate pastry that making the base less fatty tends to improve the cohesion of the pie once it is baked.

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Take it out of the oven. Add the cognac, stir, put in jars and seal. Store in your pantry for years! Ingredients for the pastry: 400g plain flour 50g lard 100g butter a pinch of salt some cold water 100ml milk mixed with an egg yolk for glazing pies

Top with some icing sugar.

CUISINE & WINE HW

a truly italian design

102, Palm Street, Paola PLA1414 MALTA | Tel: 21668880 | Mob: 79817777 | E-mail: info@spotonmalta.com Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 9.00hrs to 13.00hrs and 16.00hrs to 19.00hrs | Saturdays: 9.00hrs to 13.00hrs www.spotonmalta.com | Find us on f Spot-On-Supplies-Ltd 145

ADDRESS BOOK A&A Mizzi, Triq is-Salib ta’ l-iMriehel, Mriehel. Tel: 21488168. www.aamizzi.com Abraham’s Gozitano Agricultural Village, Triq l-Mgarr, Xewkija Gozo. Tel: 2156 3231 | 2156 0952. info@ abrahams.com.mt | www.abrahams.com.mt Alistair’s Christmas Shop, B’Kara Bypass. (Open all day, every day until late.) Tel: 2722 3334 | 9947 1817. info@ alistairfloraldesign.com Aluserv, Servgroup, Triq in-Negozju, Qasam Industrijali, Mriehel, B’Kara. Tel: 2144 9878. www.servgroupmalta. com Astral, Ta’ Xbiex. Tel: 2134 0562 | 2134 5522. www.astral.com.mt B&M Supplies, By-Pass ta’ Birkirkara, B’Kara. Tel: 2144 0710. www.bmsupplies.com Banju Boutique, Triq L- Arkata, Paola. Tel: 2180 9111/2. www.banjuboutique.com Bathroom Design, 358, Triq In-Naxxar, B’Kara, Tel: 2144 1328. www.bathroomdesign. com.mt BDI, 1, Triq Pietru Felici, Qormi. Tel: 2149 1727/2. www.homesbybdi.com Biggie Best, Triq tal-Balal, San Gwann. Tel: 2138 8880 / 2738 8880. www.biggiebestmalta. com

Compunet, 6PM Business Centre, Swatar. Tel: 2142 2988. www.compunet.com.mt Contemp Interiors, 119, Triq In-Naxxar, Birkirkara. Tel:2144 2116. www.facebook/ contempinteriors CoseCasa, 77, Triq it-Tliet Knejjes, Balzan. Tel: 2144 7672. www.cosecasa.com |www.facebook.com/ cosecasamalta Debenhams, The Point Shopping Mall, Pjazza Tigne’ Point, Sliema. Tel: 2060 2010. Decorium, 190, Triq in-Naxxar, San Gwann. Tel: 2138 9224. www.decorium.com.mt Doneo, Mountbatten Street, Hamrun. www.doneo.com.mt Edwards, Lowell, 7, Triq San Zakkarija, Valletta. Tel: 2124 7447. 6, Triq San Gorg, Spinola Bay, San Giljan. Tel: 2138 4503. www.elcol.com E Solutions Malta. Tel: 7777 0574 | www.esolutionsmalta.net Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker, The Winery on the Waterfront, Paola. Tel: 2182 5199 / 7982 5199. www.delicata.com

Bitmac, Triq tal-Balal, Tax-Xwieki, Naxxar. Tel: 2141 8411. www.bitmacltd.com

Farrugia Lighting and Interiors, Triq Dun Karm Xerri, Iklin. Tel: 2141 9111. www.farrgia.com.mt

BOV, 58, Triq il-Kanun, Santa Venera. Tel: 2131 2020. www.bov.com

Farsons Direct, Mriehel. Tel: 2381 4444. www.farsonsdirect.com

Camilleri & Sammut Building Finishes. Tel: 9983 7807 | 7971 8549. camsamprojects@ gmail.com

Forestals Showroom, Mriehel Bypass, Mriehel, B’Kara. Tel: 2343 6000. www.forestalsgroup.com

camilleriparismode, 54, Triq Santa Katarina, Rabat. Pjazza Annunzjata, Sliema. Tel: 2010 2030. www.camilleriparismode. com

Form, Triq il-Wied ta’ l-Imsida, Msida. Tel: 2144 6000 / 2144 2535. www.form.com.mt

Carmelo Delia, Triq il-Wied, B’Kara. Tel: 2147 2882. www.carmelodelia.com

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Ceilings & Walls, 27, Albatross, Triq il-Vittmi tax-Xoghol, Paola. Tel: 9944 9234. www.ceilingandwalls. com.mt

GRF Design Concepts, 117, Triq l-Assemblea Nazzjonali San Gwann. Tel: 2137 7378 / 7942 4422. www.grfmalta.com

Go plc, www.go.com.mt Grixti Mobili, 1, Triq il-Kanun, Qormi. Tel: 2148 6511. www.grixtimobili.com HENRI Luxury Gift Boutique, Mdina (next to Palazzo Falson). Tel: 2010 6307 Hydrolectric, Triq il-Kappillan Mifsud, Hamrun. Tel: 2124 1111. www.hydrolectric.com. mt Lawrence Fenech, Triq il-Mosta, Lija. Tel: 2141 5648. www. lawrencefenech.com Light Design Solutions, Triq Emmanuel Schembri, B’Kara. Tel: 2149 6843. www.lds.com.mt LOFT, Triq San Pawl, Naxxar. Tel: 2099 9966. www.loft.com.mt Luxonas, Vjal il Haddiem, Rabat. Tel: 2145 1718 | 7928 8688. www.luxonas.com M.Demajo Timbers, Misrah Iz-Zebbug, Qormi. Tel: 2148 7078. www.demajotimbers. com MaltaRugs, 101 Triq Psaila, B’Kara. Tel: 2702 5702 | 9982 2866. www.maltarugs.com Manor House, Balzan Valley, Balzan. www.facebook.com/ Manorhousemalta Mdina Glass Outlets. Tel: 2141 5786. www.mdinaglass.com. mt Meli Bugeja, Triq il-Mithna, Qormi. Tel: 2144 4348. www.melibugeja.com.mt Flamingo Complex, Triq il-Kanun, Qormi. Tel: 2279 4218/9. www.flamingo.com.mt Il Camino, 48/49, Triq Fleur de Lys, B’Kara. Tel: 2144 1689 | 7988 8999. www.ilcamino.net Muscat Pool Construction & Supplies, Triq Gammari Camilleri, Mgarr. Tel: 9945 7491. www.muscatpools.com

Nestle Malta, Triq Pantar, Lija. Tel: 2338 9000. One Two One Interiors, Vjal il-Wiehed U Ghoxrin Ta’ Settembru, Naxxar. Tel: 2142 2948. Ix-Xatt Ta- Qui Si-Sana, Sliema. Tel: 2132 3155. www.onetwoone.eu Next Home, Triq Bisazza, Sliema. Tel: 2134 4156. P. Cutajar, The Store, Capital Business Centre, Triq Taz-Zwejt, Industrial Centre, San Gwann. Tel: 2144 4364. www.pcutajar.com.mt Peter Camilleri & Sons, Marsa. Tel: 2122 0258. petercamilleri@pcs.com. mt |www.pcs.com.mt | www.easylink.hafele. com Petrolea, Triq il-Wied ta’ L’Msida, Msida. Tel: 2123 4501 / 2123 5487. www.petroleamalta.com. mt Piscopo Gardens, Triq Toni Camilleri, San Pawl il-Bahar, Burmarrad. Tel: 2158 3755 / 7909 2848. www.piscopogardens. com Portelli & Brincat, Triq Kukkanja, Santa Venera. Tel: 2148 8199 | 2148 2831. www. portellibrincat.com.mt Project Life by Vella Falzon, Triq in-Naxxar, San Gwann. Tel: 2138 6164. www.projectlife.com.mt Raphael Azzopardi, 6, Triq l-Uqija, L-Ibrag, Swieqi. Tel: 2137 3812. www.raphaelazzopardi. com rustica home, 32, il-Moll tal Marsa. Tel: 2123 8520. info@rusticahome.com. mt Satariano, 122, Triq il-Wied, B’Kara. Tel: 2149 2149. www.satariano.com Scavolini Store Malta, B’Kara Bypass, B’Kara. Tel: 2149 5751. info@ malta.scavolinistore.net Seamless, 4, Triq Guze Duca, Qormi. Tel: 2144 0404 | 7940 0404. www.seamless.com.mt

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION PLEASE CALL: 2133 9999 OR EMAIL: INFO@WRITEON.COM.MT

Spot On Supplies, Triq il-Palmi, Paola. Tel: 2166 8880 / 7981 7777. www.spotonmalta.com Stem Interiors, The Quay, Ix-Xatt Ta’Xbiex, Ta’Xbiex. Tel: 2133 2019. facebook: Stem Interiors Sterling Jewellers, 6, Triq ir-Repubblika, Valletta. Tel: 2124 5999. www.sterlingjewellers. com.mt Stoneage Concrete, Triq San Silvestru, Mosta. Tel: 2142 3662 / 9952 6254. www.stoneage.com.mt STYLISH. Bathrooms & Ceramics, Edge Water Complex, Triq Elia Zammit, St. Julian’s. Tel: 2138 2512. www.stylish.com.mt Sunflower by Janice, Triq Sant Tumas, Fgura. Tel: 9947 8286. The Atrium, Bypass ta’ l-iMriehel, Mriehel. Tel: 2147 0000. www.theatrium.com.mt The Cake Story, Triq il-Kappillan Mifsud, Sta Venera. Tel: 2149 8214. facebook: The Cake Story Malta The Christmas Store, Triq Sette Giugno, Victoria, Gozo. Tel: 2156 6087 | 9987 7658. The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Misrah il-Kunsill , Mdina. Tel: 2145 0560. www.xarapalace.com.mt Topline, Triq Sant’ Andrija, St. Andrews. Tel: 2137 2256. www.giftsandmore.com. mt VCT Light & Design, Triq Ponsomby, Mosta. Tel: 2143 2571. www.vct.com.mt Vee Gee Bee, 2, South Court, Vjal ir-Rihan, San Gwann. Tel: 2138 5584 | 309, Triq ir-Repubblika, Valletta. Tel: 2122 4585. VJ Salomone Consumer Lines, Triq is-Salib tal-Marsa, Marsa. Tel: 2122 1094. consumer@vjsalomone. com

Boundless creative freedom

At Carmelo Delia we bring the sensational brands, you make the amazing combination.

Kitchen Model: Adele | Valley Road, Birkirkara Tel: 2147 2882 | Email: info@carmelodelia.com