ISSUE 74 AUGUST 2015
ISSUE 83
INSPIRATION IMPROVEMENT STYLE
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THE RENOVATION ISSUE + living room special
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OUTDOOR LIVING
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Marina Street, PietĂ
Valley Road, Birkirkara
2149 2149
2149 2149
satariano.com
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Monitoring & Control. You can conveniently control and monitor your washing machine while you are out. What’s more, you will have all the important information about washing programmes and the device status.
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Cameras in the Fridge. Innovative interior cameras will send images from your fridge straight to your mobile device. So even while you are out, you will always know exactly which ingredients you need for dinner.
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Introducing Home Connect, smart connectivity for an easier life.
Easy start.
Coffee playlist. With your smartphone, you can collect your guests’ requests via playlist in the app. And your fully automatic coffee machine will do the rest.
The best tip for washing up: get some useful tips from your Home Connect app. Just ask Easy Start, and it will always recommend the right programme for cleaning your dishes.
Remote control. To turn on your oven remotely from wherever you are, you only have to use your mobile device. Besides that, you get all the information you need about the cooking process.
THE COMFORT OF KNOWING YOU’RE IN GOOD HANDS
www.oxfordhouse.com.mt
Notabile Road, Mriehel | T: 2546 4000 | E: info@oxfordhouse.com.mt Like us on Facebook
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OUTDOOR LIGHTING
A | 38/1, Emmanuel Schembri Str, Birkirkara, BKR 1810 - T | 2149 6843 - E | info@lds.com.mt
www.lds.com.mt
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CONTENTS HW
® ISSUE 83 MAY 2017
034 COVER STORY ECLECTIC DREAMS - One woman’s vision has brought a derelict house back to life
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contents
Reader letters and competition Edit – News My Design Life – Gordon Guillaumier Milan fair round-up Home 1: Eclectic Dreams Home 2: Reach for the Sky Home 3: Classic Style Home 4: Strong Finish Living room special Shop Lifestyle news Gardening – Get some Garden Wow Food and Wine - Simply Delicious Travel – Palazzo Perfect Essential suppliers Address book Back Story – Blossom chandelier 007
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EDITOR’S LETTER HW
This Issue. ‘When I walk around an old building I cannot help myself from imagining all those hands which have worked on each and every element around me’. I found this quote from architect Chris Briffa in an article on how to renovate an old house (page 019) very evocative. Taking an old house, often derelict, and bringing it back to life is very satisfying. The challenge, however, is to do it in a way that respects its history but at the same time makes it a home for 21st century living. The four homes in this issue are all old buildings of character and are inspiring for the way architects and interior architects took this into account when renovating them. On a similar theme, how do you decorate an old home? In response to a reader request, we asked interior designer Greta Apap Bologna for a step-by-step guide to creating one for the living room of an old home using spring/summer’s new trends and colours. It’s a fascinating and inspirational feature - plus, do check out the Living Room special for even more great ideas for this space. Enjoy the issue!
PUBLISHER MARC SPITERI HOMEWORKS is published by Writeon Limited. 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. © 2017
EDITOR RACHEL LOOS EDITORIAL COORDINATION LORINDA MAMO ART DIRECTOR MARC SPITERI DESIGN JONATHAN RYAN
PHOTOGRAPHY LAUREN BAMFORD CHRIS BRIFFA HANNA BRIFFA ALAN CARVILLE EMIKO DAVIES OLJA GRENNER TONIO LOMBARDI SEAN MALLIA CONTRIBUTORS GRETA APAP BOLOGNA EMIKO DAVIES LISA GWEN BALDACCHINO GEORGES MEEKERS MONICA MICALLEF VINNY VELLA KATJA WIEDERSUM
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GET IN TOUCH HOMEWORKS is distributed to all outlets that carry the Sunday newspapers. We’d love to hear your opinions - what you love, what you love less, and what you’d like to see more of! Email us on info@homeworks.com.mt 009
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READER’S RESPONSE HW ®
GIVE US YOUR FEEDBACK AND WIN FORWARD YOUR IDEAS OUTLINING WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE PUBLISHED IN HOMEWORKS. THE PERSON SUBMITTING THE MOST INTERESTING IDEA OR CONCEPT WILL RECEIVE ‘THE HOMEWORKS BOOK - A COLLECTION OF CONTEMPORARY MALTESE INTERIORS AND ARCHITECTURE, WITH OVER 300 PAGES OF VIBRANT AND STUNNING PHOTOGRAPHY, WORTH €40. Send your ideas to: HOMEWORKS Feedback, Writeon Ltd., 89 Tigné Street, Level 2, Sliema, SLM 3170, Malta or email: info@homeworks.com.mt
ISSUE 82
WINNER aLL-new JaGUar f-pace
aBoVe aLL, It’S a JaGUar. INSPIRATION IMPROVEMENT STYLE
CLAIRE CAMILLERI IS THE WINNER OF THE HOMEWORKS BOOK - A COLLECTION OF CONTEMPORARY MALTESE INTERIORS AND ARCHITECTURE, WITH OVER 300 PAGES OF VIBRANT AND STUNNING PHOTOGRAPHY, WORTH €40.
CLAIRE WROTE: from €49,900 Welcome to Jaguar as you’ve never seen it before. Now you can enjoy the dramatic drive and beauty Jaguar is renowned for, with added practicality. Inspired by F-TYPE, its powerful, muscular looks give the All-New F-PACE a head-turning road presence. And it delivers the connected steering feel and sharp, responsive handling of a sports car too, thanks to its aluminium double wishbone front and Integral Link rear suspension. A master of sporting performance and everyday practicality, F-PACE raises the game.
THE PARED BACK ISSUE
ISSUE 82 MARCH 2017
NOW WITH 5 YEARS WARRANTY from Muscats Motors, sole agent for Jaguar in Malta. jaguar.com.mt Muscats Motors Ltd. Rue D’Argens, Gżira. GZR 1368. 2326 4584/5. info@mml.mizzi.com.mt
ISSUE 82
Potent, agile and responsive, All-New F-PACE is pure Jaguar.
+ kitchen & dining special
the art of performance
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“I would like to hire a stylist to help in renovating a couple of rooms in our home. I want to be prepared, not just by having pictures I can show them, but a way to encapsulate all the things I want. Can you give us some tips on how to prepare a good brief for a designer? ”
HOMEWORKS
ONLINE AND ON YOUR MOBILE FIND IN-DEPTH FEATURES THAT CAN’T BE FOUND IN THE MAGAZINE, UNCOVERING INSPIRING INTERIORS, ARCHITECT-DESIGNED HOMES AND THE LATEST NEW PRODUCTS. YOU CAN ALSO READ ALL THE MAGAZINE ISSUES ONLINE. DON’T MISS OUT ON THE EXCITING NEW WAY TO BRING YOU MORE INSPIRATION, INNOVATION AND STYLE. VISIT
WWW.HOMEWORKS.COM.MT
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. HOMEWORKS will select the best
submissions for future features. Send a photo and information to the attention of: The Editor, info@homeworks.com.mt
SOCIAL MEDIA
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THE EDIT NEWS
TRENDS
ADVICE
SHOPPING
PEOPLE
SOFTLY DOES IT The Munega lamp from Natuzzi looks modern but it’s made using the traditional technique of freeblown glass where quick puffs of air are blown into molten glass to create a distinctive spherical shape. The simplicity of its organic shape means it fits equally in a modern or more traditional interior, and with the metal parts painted white, the softly glowing light is uninterrupted. Form
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REMEMBERMe
Called ‘Memory Blocks’, these threedimensional tiles by Sid Dickens are a bold and original way to bring a wall to life. Drawing inspiration from architecture, history, nature and everyday life, the tiles are hand-crafted plaster, some finished to a porcelain-like quality, others cracked to create an aged look or to resemble weathered stone. The Vancouver-based artist creates collections of a limited run and depending on the theme, the image may also be hand-painted in vibrant colours or simply in monochrome; gold or silver leafing are also frequently used. The artist’s tiles are collected by Hollywood stars and fashion designers such as Dolce & Gabbana, and look amazing hung on a wall next to each other, where they reflect the owners style and taste. ‘Ultimately they reflect a storyboard of the collector’s life,’ says Sid. Camilleri Paris Mode.
COLOUR DRIFT Dulux’s colour of the year is Denim Drift which plugs into spring/summer’s blue trend. Alongside the colour, Dulux has also developed a lovely tonal colour palette specifically to complement Denim Drift, featuring a spectrum of blues and complimentary blue hued tones. They’re perfect for doing a fading effect – lightening the colour as it goes up the wall – which is a technique perfectly suited to old homes. vgb.com.mt
ANNIVERSARY PRESENT To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Componibili, the storage unit that is undoubtedly one of Kartell’s most iconic designs – and a best-seller since it was launched at the Milan Furniture Fair back in 1967 – the brand has released gorgeous new versions in burgundy, military green and petrol blue. There is also a new version with four elements, instead of the usual two and three. Created by Italian designer Anna Castelli Ferrieri, the Componibili is now part of the permanent collections at the MOMA, New York, and the Pompidou Centre, Paris. A versatile storage unit that can be used in any room in the home, it has neat sliding doors with fingerhole handles that open to reveal a spacious compartment within.
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Miracle Worker Ask anyone living in an old house the one thing they would change and the most likely answer is rising damp and its partner in crime, humidity. Together they result in flaking paint and plaster, and eroded walls. A new product, however, aims to stop this problem. Aquapol is an awardwinning and innovative technology that promises to solve the problem of rising damp permanently and without the need to touch the wall in any way. It is already being used in many old palazzos and historic sites such as the castle housing the parliament in Budapest and the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere which dates back to the Roman Empire. A small, lampshade-like device, it is attached to the ceiling of the affected area or placed neatly on a shelf. Just one device is needed for an entire building, regardless of size, and it works by using the earth’s natural magnetic field to push moisture back down into the soil. The device sets to work immediately, gradually drying out the walls. How long depends on the wall’s dampness. ‘One of the first signs that it is working is that the mouldy smell disappears from a room,’ says Paul Cardona, a local Aquapol consultant. ‘A wall is like a sponge and the Aquapol technology ensures it dries gradually and consistently. From our experience we found that some walls dried out in one year while others took three years, depending on the severity of the dampness in the walls - some walls are capable of holding 500 litres of water per cubic meter! Imagine having to move that volume of water back down into the ground.’
PERFECTLY FORMED The design of smart and stylish furniture for small spaces is an on-going trend and this Cupertino console table by BoConcept is a perfect example. With a slim table top, slender legs and light design it’s chic and flexible – Furniture design for small spaces, that’s both smart and stylish, it works as a piece of furniture for a narrow hallway, as a display table in a compact living room and even as a bedroom dressing table. Brands International
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Surfacing the most beautiful spaces
The Factory, Mosta Road, Lija. T: 21 433636 www.halmannvella.com
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THE EDIT HW
HOW TO RENOVATE AN OLD BUILDING Architect Chris Briffa is known for his sympathetic work with old buildings. He gives his advice on how to bring an old property into the 21st century, without losing its heart
What are the challenges of renovating an old building to make it a modern home? It’s challenging and often even costlier, to live in an old building. Some people can live with the humidity, crumbling walls and the constant maintenance, while others can’t. One of the most common mistakes when purchasing an old property is that people tend to be romantic or nostalgic, and that they might not realise what they’re going in for. One of the biggest challenges of old buildings is being able to install modern building services without causing obvious, and often irreparable, damage to the architectural spaces. This was a major concern with The Harbour Club for instance, a challenge which we overcame through the creation of a kiosk-like space on the exterior of the build to hide and contain the backbone of the services infrastructure: ACs, water & gas supply, extraction and so on. At the opposite end of the spectrum, living or refitting an old building to a new use can bring about very
rewarding qualities: specificity, honesty, details and character that modern spaces generally lack. Somehow the proportions of an old building are so faithful and innately local, in keeping with both climate and history – factors that add pleasure and comfort when living within such spaces. What should be your aim when designing a new function to an old structure? I guess one should primarily do his best to understand the building, its history and various layers and the concerns of its previous inhabitants. That is why I often 019
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HW THE EDIT find myself going back on site to revisit a design or a detail, even after works are in full swing. I camped for about two weeks in my first apartment to grasp how it felt, and to understand how the light changed accordingly from space to space during different hours of the day, and I still changed its layout dozens of times before I settled. One should aim at striking a balance – between understanding what is crucial to retain and safeguard within a space, and what is not. During the actual works and transformation of an old space, one really needs to be present on site, and be more flexible to adapt and welcome changes and alterations that might make more sense than the original designs. How do you mix old and new? There is no formula here. Each renovation scheme is unique and has its own set of patterns – each project is a prototype; a building is designed around its context and its clients, their family and their way of life: a story in its own right. However, a good example would be with the flooring. In my new office, I managed to salvage all the old patterned tiles in the building apart from the ones on the ground floor. Here we had to revisit the floorings because of serious issues with humidity, so I opted for a cast, polished concrete floor. Concrete has a natural cloudiness, stains and texture – qualities which lend themselves well with the monolithic spaces of masonry structures; somehow marrying happily with the imperfections of rest of the building. What are the commonly made mistakes? At the moment I am quite upset with the boutique hotel cliché developments which are taking Valletta by storm. There are many of them that are coldly splitting the Sala Nobile in their palazzos in order to maximize space and win more rooms, often with irreparable concrete structures that will be impossible to reverse in the future. These people are destroying the DNA of the city and its finest monuments, since the Sala Nobile was the main family room of the house; the driest and coolest in the summer; the most naturally lit with the best ventilation and the proportions of which reflected the status of the people who built it hundreds of years ago. They fail to realise that guests will pay double and even more in order to be able to stay in these unique spaces,
In Chris’s home, the roof-top services are cleverly hidden beneath the whirlpool on the roof terrace
‘When I walk around an old building I cannot help myself from imagining all those hands, which have worked on each and every element around me’
which are slowly disappearing and will one day become more valuable than the hotel itself or its number of rooms. Another common mistake is to relegate all the building services on the roof slab instead of planning to hide them elsewhere; with the result of losing the best outdoor areas of the building. I often do my best to devise a well-ventilated space within the structure, and rid the roof of ugly AC units or water tanks. How do you insulate the building? Protect against damp? Insulation is normally effective externally, and because one needs to respect and protect old façades, it’s not always easy to achieve. The roof, however, is typically the most important envelope to insulate, and here one can easily utilise properly detailed thermal insulation coupled with effective waterproofing. Other elements such as canopies or decking or any kind of shading devices are also effective, while a roof garden with a minimum of 50cm of soil is the ultimate insulation. Damp, on the other hand, is always a persistent pest, and the best way to deal with it is always to ensure constant natural (or at times forced) ventilation in all the lower floors. What original elements should one always try and keep? What’s best to get rid of? When I walk around an old building I cannot help myself from imagining all those hands, which have worked on each and every element around me. That innate beauty, at times with evident imperfections, which one-day will become so rare that future generations will value more then us. As much as possible, I would recommend getting rid of nothing; retain as much as you can; from the volume of rooms, to the floors and apertures. At times one needs to remove later additions - such as elements not forming part of the original; or produce openings to improve lighting and ventilation – but in general, a good rule of thumb is that one never completely destroys what was there before; always leaves a trace of the layers which formed part of the story and try and make all new interventions easily reversible in the future.
The inner courtyard of Chris’ home (far left) sympathetically combines the original stone and features with modern elements. A restored staircase (left) in an elegant townhouse
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Make the right move.
Visit us for hundreds of flooring options for your entire home.
Vivo Bathrooms & Ceramics Ltd, Geronimo Abos Street, Iklin vivo.com.mt | facebook.com /vivobathrooms
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Natural Effects Italian brand Porcelanosa has launched its Emotions kitchen collection which combines functionality with avant-garde materials. The ergonomic design has a large storage capacity and is created using Porcelanosa’s solid surface material Krion. Made from two-thirds natural minerals, Krion is resistance to stains and chemical products and also handles adverse weather conditions which makes it suitable for outdoor kitchens. The Emotions kitchen comes in a range of finishes and in more than 60 colours. Available from Satariano
HOT TROPICS Palm leaves are a motif du jour and they’ve been given a gorgeous wash of colour to create the Palmina range from Schlossberg. A three-dimensional design layers the fine leaves of fan palms over heavier banana leaves, Hawaii palms and bamboo for an exotic look that all about tropical summer nights. Boris Arcidiacono
Art Show Giving local creatives a chance to shine is the glossy book, The Artists Directory – Malta – Volume I’. Compiled by Monique Chambers and Paula Fleri-Soler, it showcases 100 Maltese and Maltese-based visual artists such as Alex Attard, Celia Borg Cardona, Chris Briffa, Goran Cejkov, Andrew Diacono, Marie Louise Kold, Cyril Sancereau, James Vella Clark, and Kenneth Zammit Tabona and Zvesdan Rejlic. ‘We limited the book to 100 artists so we could do a series and enable artists that may not have made their mark just yet, to one day be featured,’ says Monique. ‘The book is the perfect gift for art lovers, dinner parties, and the person who has everything.’ Now available from indulge.com.mt/shop 023
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HW THE EDIT
I live..
between different realities - Milan being the main one, since it’s been my home for the past 30 years. It’s a city I adore; the place where I have chosen to broaden my culture and develop my design practice; a multi-faceted metropolis which has given me great opportunities to achieve my dreams and ambitions. My abode is a small apartment in a beautiful Liberty Building (below), which I use essentially as an isolation padcum-dormitory, as well as personal archive of the all the paraphernalia I’ve collected over the years. Going south towards Sicily, Noto is my getaway, and the place where the modern country house I designed 14 years back (bottom), is located. I consider this to have been a significant project, since I’m a designer by trade, not an architect. I had always dreamt of designing my house and this was an opportunity which paved the way for many future projects. A contemporary idiom immersed in a bucolic setting - precisely what I need to charge my batteries whilst I’m away from the bustling city. There’s never really a dull moment here: early morning swims at the Vendicari nature reserve, pressing olives, snooping around the archaeological sites and getting lost… and there’s
Photo: Andrea Wyner Photo Andrea Wyner
Photo: Andrea Ferrari
still so much for me to see. Moving even further south, and towards the origins of which I am incredibly proud, Senglea is my preferred home and holiday retreat. Escher was rightly obsessed with this spot when he visited Malta. My home here is a typical townhouse perched on the bastions which overlook the Grand Harbour and having Fort St Angelo as backdrop to the living room. The scenario has changed ever since I acquired the house, yet something is still unique about the Three Cities… The most useful item in my home is… my music player, I need music in the background to work, to chill out and to meditate. All sorts of music: from rock, jazz, contemporary, classical and above all, opera. I adjust the volume according to mood and sometimes let it flow out into the streets. I take my coffee… at regular intervals, as often as 5 to 6 times a day: a black ‘ristretto’ with no sugar. I can drink several cups of coffee in the evening for a good night’s sleep… sic! By far, the best coffee I have ever had, was in Naples. Neopolitans have this wonderful tradition of the ‘caffè sospeso’; a pending coffee paid in advance as an anonymous act of charity by the luckier sort towards unluckier ones as an act of social solidarity. I could not live without… dreams and the realms of my imagination – the latter being essential to look beyond reality and trigger inspiration. I get bouts of inspiration when least expected such as when I’m travelling on trains or even on my bike. I rely heavily on inspiration and a good dose of perspiration when I’m working. Far from Edison’s definition of genius, which I’m certainly not. I jot my ideas down on… anything that comes to hand when I’ve got an idea ticking away in my head. I often carry a small black Moleskine notebook (Bruce Chatwin’s favourite tool), especially when travelling. I’ve got dozens of these used notebooks stacked away, so fishing out a sketch or tracing a concept is not always easy. I am inspired by… the arts - anything from classical to contemporary
M.C. Escher’s “Balcony” © 2017 www.mcescher.com – all rights reserved
Having set up his design studio in Milan in 2002, Gordon Guillaumier has become an established international designer whose practice focuses on product design, consultation and design of interiors. Having collaborated with tops brands and design houses including Rodolfo Dordoni, Driade, Minotti and Moroso, Gordon was recently appointed art director of Roda outdoor furniture and Pamar furniture handles and accessories.
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THE EDIT HW painting, sculpture, architecture, music, theatre, cinema, literature. It’s impossible to be specific here, besides I wouldn’t wish to bore. Living in Italy means constant inspiration from the exposure to a magnificent patrimony. This cultural inspiration constantly feeds my work. I also find materials, technology, traditional craftsmanship and manufacturing processes highly inspiring and these are often catalysts to my design ideas. Beauty, proportion and balance, derived from nature, have inspired artists, architects, craftsmen and designers throughout the ages - I am certainly no exception. My working day entails… an early start and sometimes a jog in the park. I sometimes walk to work, unless it’s raining. A light lunch at my local trattoria followed by solid work until apertivo time with friends for some social exchange. Alternatively, an exhibition inauguration, the cinema or theatre. I occasionally enjoy a quiet evening at home to catch up on reading and some me time. The designer(s) I most admire… Starting from the Italians: Achille Castiglioni, Vico Magistretti, Carlo Scarpa, Franco Albini, Gio Ponti, Angelo Mangiarotti, Gio Colombo, Ettore Sottsass. Followed by the rest; Marcel Breuer, Dieter Rams, Harry Bertoia, Carlotte Perriand , Le Corbu, Ray & Charles Eames, Hans Wegner, Gerrit Rietveld, Poul Kjaerholm, the Bouroullec Brothers, Tapio Wirkkala, Eero Saarinen, Robin Day, Shiro Kuramata… it would be unfair to name one and leave out the others! I especially admire many design pieces by anonymous designers, who are most worthy of praise and mention. Beautiful shaped objects or brilliant simple inventions that are timeless and admirable.
The public building I most like to visit is… top of my preferences are archaeological sites which always have a mesmerizing effect on me; my favourites being Selinunte (above), Paestum and Kom Ombo. I also adore museums, especially those dedicated to contemporary art. The very notion of a public building housing and displaying works of art and hosting exhibitions is something that has always fascinated me; they are places where architecture and art mingle into a single and universal cultural dimension, ultimately, the epitome of our civilization. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Guggenheim museum in New York (right) is my favourite museum together with Piano and Roger’s Centre Pompidou in Paris. Nowadays, some countries grant free access to their museums on a particular day during the week to promote art. Perhaps, one day, this cultural philanthropy shall extend to other countries so that art may become more accessible.
My favourite interior design classic is... Mart Stam’s S33 cantilever chair, designed in 1926. An essential breakthrough design icon using bent tubular steel and fabric. The following year Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe ‘borrowed’ this concept for a similar version he designed for the Bauhaus. The work I am most proud of... I’m not keen to exhibit pride relating to my work, though admittedly it is satisfying when one’s designs receive public recognition. The true ‘value’ of a design piece can sometimes be measured by its popularity, although this is not always a correct indicator. Recognition may come from commercial success, media coverage and prestigious awards. In 2016, my Brick table
produced by Roda, received an honourable mention from the Compasso d’Oro (XXIV edition 2016) and the Bits & Pieces collection for Ceramiche Piemme. The everyday item that is genius in design... The ‘Moka Caffettiera’ designed by Luigi de Ponti and Alfonso Bialetti in 1933; an evergreen, beautiful and very useful design icon which I need every morning to get me started. 025
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nicolettihome.com
KITCHENS
R LIVING, MRIEHEL BYPASS, QORMI
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OFFICE
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PHONE. 21 499 699
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THE EDIT HW
Milan Furniture Fair
THE WORLD’S BIGGEST FURNITURE FAIR, SALONE DEL MOBILE, WITNESSED SIX DAYS JAMPACKED WITH EXHIBITIONS, SHOWS AND TALKS. HERE ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS…
WATCH THE BIRDIE
Although Chinese visitors were very evident at the fair, there were very few Chinese designers showing their work. One that stood out from the crowd is Neri & Hu, a Shanghai-based design studio whose lighting collection for Artemide was reminiscent of birds perching on wires and branches. More abstract than a similarly ornithilogically inspired idea from Moooi last year, the lights are made using slender rods of steel to resemble overhead electrical wires, with the birds created with bodies of brushed brass and a globe-shaped light bulb for a head. Available as floor, table and pendant lights, they come as singles or as multiples ‘birds’ lined up together. Hoop-shaped rods suggest perches while a glass dome references the shape of a bird cage.
GLASS CITY Stacked glass that makes eye-catching vases and other decorative objects is a current trend and the ethereal beauty of blown-glass totems by designer Luca Nichetto were appreciated at Decode/Recode, the exhibition put on by Venetian glassmaker Salviati. display at a venue in a new location for the fair for 2017, Ventura Centrale.
OUCH!
Phillippe Starck’s choice of inspiration for his furniture collection for Driade was an interesting one – the instruments of torture used by the Spanish Inquisition. Made up of a table, chair, armchair and stool, the four pieces are called the Torquemada collection, named after Tomas de Torquemada, who was the Grand Inquisitor during the infamous period in Spain’s history. The table’s design is inspired by a torture tack – beneath the table top, two rectangular mirror polished steel supports slice the table’s legs like a guillotine. Chairs have mirror polished stainless-steel manacles connecting the base to the back legs. As well as plain finishes, the furniture is also available in a textured gouged oak finish. 027
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PINK POWER Colour experts may have decreed Greenery as the colour of the year, but the colour du fair was ‘millenial pink’. From furniture to accessories, the pale, dusky pink was everywhere – it even featured in the most instagrammed display, Le Refuge by Paris-based designer Marc Ange who showcased a pink bed beneath pink leaf-shaped panels.
IN PLAIN SIGHT
Unobtrusive technology was on show. Bang & Olufsen (left) launched a sound system made of hexagonal speakers and acoustic panes that can be arranged a different honeycomb patterns to create installations that resemble wall art. As well as playing and boosting sounds, the panels, covered in fabric by Kvadrat, can absorb noise to improve indoor acoustics. For Samsung (above), Yves Behar designed ‘Frame’, a television that resembles a work of art or a photo when turned off, banishing the ugly black hole.
DESIGN WARS Two of Italy’s heavyweight brands, Cassina and Molteni & C ended up in the courts in a dispute over who has the right to show a Gio Ponti chair – a lounger with slightly winged headrest - that dates back to the 1950s. The Tribunale do Milano issued a precautionary injunction that prohibited Cassina from producing, marketing or displaying the Ponti-designed lounge chair which both companies claim to own the rights to. Molteni & C, now headed by Dutch designer Vincent Van Duysen, launched the chair at the fair as the D.156.3 while Cassina, now headed by Patricia Urquiola, launched its identical version, called the 811, in its showroom (right). The latter claims the chair was ‘conceived, engineered and produced’ by the company ‘in cooperation’ with Ponti. However, Molteni & C, argues it has exclusive rights to the design after purchasing them from Ponti’s heirs in 2010. The heirs, who administer the Gio Ponti Archives, back this interpretation (left) and were a joint party with Molteni&C in the litigation.
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MOOD BOARD MASTERCLASS
1
STEP
YOUR STARTING POINT
A mood board begins with an idea about something specific – it can be something as simple as a colour, the texture of a cushion or even a decorative item such as a chandelier (with this scheme, I started off with the stunning Orbit chandelier in antique brass by Porta Romana.) Keep your image handy – mount it on to a cork board so that it is visible at all times as it is the inspirational starting point that will guide you through the task of designing your space. Everything that is added to the room needs to be bounced off your original design idea or colour etc. so as you go pin your ideas to your board so you can start to see how all the elements work together…
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2
FLOORING
3
WALLS
4
SOFA
STEP
CREATING A MOOD BOARD IS THE FIRST STEP IN DECORATING YOUR HOME – BUT HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT IT? USING THE LIVING ROOM OF AN OLD HOUSE AND THIS SEASON’S COLOURS AND TRENDS, INTERIOR DESIGNER GRETA APAP BOLOGNA GIVES US A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE…
The impact of the colour / material that the flooring has in a room is massive so you can use it to set the tone accordingly. If there is lots of natural light you might opt for darker flooring as the space can afford it. Here I chose parquet as it is in keeping with an old house and antiques look lovely combined with a dark tone. Herringbone is extremely elegant and combined with contemporary sofas and other items of furniture looks great in an old house.
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STEP
What effect do you want to achieve in this space? Is it a room with multiple purposes – i.e. watching tv, chatting with friends over a glass or two of wine, playing a game around a coffee table… all these factors are crucial to achieving the right design and ambiance. Have fun with the walls. Wallpaper is a great way of doing this and you can easily keep it to one wall only if you have opted for a bold oversized pattern such the one I have chosen here. Co-ordinate the remaining walls with paint that picks up the background of the wallpaper chosen. Alternatively, if the pattern is very small or simply just a texture, then go for it and wallpaper the entire space - the effect is stunning!
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STEP
There are so many brands / designs to choose from so first ask yourself a couple questions. Do you want something that you can just sink into after a long day at the office, or do you want something that holds its shape and bounces back once you get up out of the sofa? In my scheme, I opted for a lush and soft medium grey fabric for my sofa. The grey tones work extremely well with the burnished brass and copper accessories. Also, different grey tones complement the herringbone parquet and immediately gives a traditional pattern a modern update.
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5
COFFEE TABLE AND RUG
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LIGHTING
STEP
These needs to be worked hand-in-hand and suit the type of sofa chosen. If, for instance, you opt for a dark coffee table, then choose a light-coloured rug so that the table stands out.
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STEP
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The lighting of your space is very important and you need to add in lighting options for atmosphere. Add a floor lamp
and / or table lamp that co-ordinates well with the central chandelier. Play around with different levels of lighting to create varying atmospheres. Have fun and be creative. Keep referring back to your original source of inspiration and if something doesn’t quite work, change it for something else that does.
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STEP
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DECORATION
Finish the walls with artworks that have a special meaning to you. You can opt for a series of smaller black and white photos
or a few larger coloured paintings. See what works best in the overall scheme. Also, hang a large oversized gilt mirror on a wall – this will especially help in smaller spaces. Play around with textures as they are what make the space interesting. You can work with similar tones, however, try applying different textures in the same space. Combine polished materials with soft and lush fabrics, mix distressed wood with sharp contrasting metals. Incorporate the antique with the new and don’t be afraid to mix the two together – you will be surprised to see just how well they complement each other. If you have opted for a neutral overall palette, then throw in some colour in smaller details such as scatter cushions, a one-off ottoman, wallpaper or even a few simple decorative items. Don’t be afraid to use colour. The overall look does not have to be matchy matchy but needs to work well when seen as a whole.
COLOUR PALETTE
The top colours for spring / summer 2017 are reminiscent of the hues that surround us in nature - subdued, muted, earthy tones teamed with pops of primary colours such as Lapis Blue, Pale Dogwood and Primrose Yellow.. •
Kale is not just a food trend, this new green is an ‘oxygenating’ colour and can be subtly introduced to your interiors with an ottoman, cushion or artwork.
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Hazelnut is a quintessential neutral with a warm undertone that’s unpretentious and with an inherent warmth. Opt for a touch of this colour by just adding two simple, elegant chairs as seen in this mood board.
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Pale Dogwood is a quiet and peaceful pink shade that engenders an aura of innocence and purity. It’s a subtle pink whose soft touch infuses a healthy glow.
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By contrast, Primrose Yellow is a joyful yellow shade that’s marked by enthusiasm, good cheer and sunny days. Don’t overuse this colour, though, as it is best in small doses.
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MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR SPACE Book your Interior Decorator at boconcept.com.mt
Hello Beautiful. NEW luxurious Hampton Sofa
BoConcept Malta, Triq tal-Balal, San Gwann
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21378011/2
www.boconcept.com.mt
info@boconcept.com.mt
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In need of renovation inspiration? You’re bound to be inspired by the homes over the next 22 pages. We begin with a fairy-tale Maltese home that has a lovely, eclectic feel. On page 040, architect Chris Briffa created a smart, minimalist solution to the renovation of a classic palazzo. In Lija, on page046, a house was transformed by making the kitchen the heart of the home, and on page 052 interior architect Jenni Apap Brown used inexpensive materials in very clever ways to create a small but perfectly formed home.
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Eclectic Dreams
ONE WOMAN’S VISION HAS BROUGHT A DERELICT HOUSE BACK TO LIFE, THE MUCH-LOVED HOME NOW A COMFORTABLE MELANGE OF OLD AND NEW… Photography: Tonio Lombardi Styling: Monique Chambers Words: Rachel Loos Thanks to: Piscopo Garden Centre
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Living room: originally part of the courtyard, it was incorporated into the house to make a spacious living space. Parquet flooring gives immediate warmth to the room and the mix of sofas ensure a relaxed vibe, the colours of all picked up in the rug. The coffee table is Loft. The tasselled light is from Morocco. ‘Our plasterer was dubious to the design of the ceiling but we love it,’ says the homeowner. ‘It centres the room’
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Living spaces: the living room (above) is a relaxing and comfortable space, the warm blues and reds complementing the stone. On paper, the dining room (this picture and right), are a mish-mash of styles but in reality the bold mix creates a statement space
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‘I have a weakness for old houses that need a family and this one was a proper Maltese house’
Kitchen (this picture and below): a long, elegant space, the traditionalstyle Maltese tiles give it character. The furnishings were made bespoke by Top Drawer, with Carrara marble worktops. A long line of storage, both open and closed, ensures there’s a place for everything
T
he bones of this house are quite beautiful traditional Maltese arches that gracefully support high ceilings, long cool corridors and solid stone walls that add subtle texture. It was this that one half of the couple who now own the house fell in love with, convincing them that the property was the perfect ‘happy ever after home’. She says: ‘I have a weakness for old houses that need a family and this one was a proper Maltese house with the lovely arches.’ Unfortunately, however, her husband did not agree, and it was only 50 home viewings later that he finally capitulated and let her have her way. It was, however, understandable that he was hesitant. Dating back to the 1700s, the house had been derelict for three decades, and needed a huge amount of work. His wife, though, was able to look beyond the wreck, and see what could be. ‘I can see things finished,’ she says. ‘Nothing about the house stumped me. I could see where our furniture could go the minute I walked in – my beautiful bone inlay chests and a big bright kitchen in the lovely long corridor.’ And so work began on bringing it back to life. It took a surprisingly short amount of time given the extent of the renovation – just eight months – but there were some unexpected shocks. ‘It was only when we brought down a wall and started to excavate, that we found that the entire house was balancing on just a couple of stones, and we were going to build two storeys on top of that!’ The house was underpinned and the transformation continued. The long corridor on the outside of the house was made part of the inside, and turned into the kitchen just as envisaged, and walls knocked through to create large,
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Bedroom: ceramic tiles that have the appearance of wood give warmth to this room. It is large enough to fit a large bookcase where the couple have most of their books, the armchairs and serene mood making it the perfect place to read Dressing room: the couple each have their own dressing room (and bathroom). This ‘hers’ dressing room was originally half the size, but the demolition of a wall revealed its true potential. Furniture painted in a wrought iron design by Shabby Chic is teamed with turquoise and dark red. A traditional balcony houses a chaise longue which, says the homeowner, is used mostly for ‘cloud spotting and long telephone calls’
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light-filled spaces. To the original first floor, they added another room, extending over the living room, so there is space for two separate dressing rooms and bathrooms, one of which is an ensuite overlooking the garden. Plaster was used carefully, only where they wanted to add colour to the walls, and the combination of stone walls and plaster creates a fresh modern feel that is the perfect background to the eclectic nature of the furniture and accessories. Varying shades of the colour blue from deep midnight to a royal blue and a lively turquoise along with flashes of red, give a richness to the look, which is finished by statement lights. The old and new mix of the building is reflected in the furnishings too, with different styles and eras juxtaposed for a look that feels very now. 039
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REACH FOR THE TOP STAND-OUT DESIGN IS ALWAYS DOWN TO RADICAL THINKING – WHICH IS CERTAINLY THE CASE IN THE RENOVATION OF THIS HISTORIC PROPERTY Architects: Chris Briffa, Marcia Calleja Haber Contractors: SAW and Decorative Concrete Photographs: Chris & Hanna Briffa Words: Rachel Loos Thanks to: Camilleri Paris Mode, Lily Agius Gallery, Piscopo Gardens
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Making an entrance: the entrance hall (left) and the courtyard (this page) show the palazzo’s original features. The lime-plastered walls complement the decorative details and stonework
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ou could say the story of this palazzo on famous St Paul Street in Valletta is about making do – but in spectacular fashion. At the top of the 400 -year-old building is a contemporary penthouse that is all sleek lines and minimalist modernity. The three floors below, however, are reminiscent of its age with decorative arched ceilings and original stonework. Unlike the penthouse, though, which is fully and stylishly furnished, these floors below are largely empty. The reason why is both a cautionary tale about buying historic homes without getting the necessary restoration advice, but also one about resilience and perseverance. The couple who bought this palazzo moved to Malta for work reasons in 2011, and from the start fell in love with Valletta for its charm, history, and its status as the capital of the island. They bought the property on the understanding that the building, at the time being used as offices, could be renovated, in the Nordic-meets-Valletta-vintage style that they desired, within their budget. ‘In fact, the size of the property meant that they would need much more to accomplish what they wanted,’ says Chris. Radical thinking was needed if the couple were to continue with their dream to restore the property – and so a plan was determined. While the designs and all details were prepared for the entire building, most of the old palazzo’s floors, including the wonderful sala nobile with its five- metre high ceilings, would simply be cleaned and made structurally safe, with a penthouse, large enough for the couple to live in, built and finished on top. It would be reached via an elevator, the doors opening to the inner courtyard.
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Dining and kitchen: the dining area with its concrete flooring is a clean, uncluttered space. Three steps lead to the state-of-the-art kitchen where Chris deliberately cantilivered the kitchen unit over the stairs to give the couple more storage space than the two-metre kitchen would otherwise have allowed. A skylight above the stairs brightens the more public areas of the penthouseÂ
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Private space: situated on the lower level of the penthouse, the bedroom has a ensuite wetroom that’s bathed in natural light, as well as guest toilet. Chris was also able to fit in a small mezzanine to create a walk-in wardrobe
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Master bedroom: a floor of polished concrete gives an industrial vibe which is softened by the abstract mural of mountains that covers one entire wall. Floor-to-ceiling curtains have again been used, this time to hide the bathroom which is open to the bedroom, as requested by the client. Pendant lights, a group of bulbs for a very now look, were used instead of table lamps which would have felt insubstantial in such a large space. The carpentry in this room, and the second bedroom, were done by BoConcept’s custom furniture division.
However, the plans took account of the future too. ‘Works were carried out in such a way that the property can be converted in stages and horizontally, each floor being an independent section,’ says Chris. For Chris, the main challenge in creating the penthouse was working with a major difference in height. ‘The front terrace was two metres higher than the rest of the roof which meant that penthouse, set back on the roof, would be totally cut off from its terrace,’ says Chris. ‘My solution was to split the lower roof into three – the lowest level for the bedroom, then up three stairs to the dining area, up another three stairs to the kitchen, and then up a further three stairs to the terrace. This slow rise created a better relationship with the outdoor spaces, and allowed us to play with the volume; in just 65 square metres we were able to fit in everything the couple required.’ Today the penthouse, sits neatly atop the palazzo, inside light grey walls and polished cement floors warmed by maple woodwork. In the floors below, cleaned stonework and limeplastered walls create a pared-back elegance that easily segues into the contemporary feel of what lies above. A perfect balance between old and new. 045
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Classic Style
NATURAL MATERIALS USED WITH CONFIDENCE AND PANACHE HAVE CREATED A HOME THAT’S PERFECTLY SUITED TO MODERN LIVING Photographs: :Tonio Lombardi Words: Rachel Loos Styling: Dining Room by Monica Micallef for onetwoone Special Thanks: ESS lighting, NEXT, Piscopo Gardens, Left Bank
Entrance hall: the series of stone arches, having been cleaned and re-grouted, beautifully lead into the heart of the home. The furniture style here is traditional but becomes modern as one goes on. The travertine floor, laid in an interesting herringbone pattern, is from Halmann Vella
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Dining room: a separate room around the corner from the kitchen and living room, it is dominated by the antique table which is extendable. The sideboard was designed by Alan following Stephanie’s brief. The floor-to-ceiling glass door which swings right out to be flush against the courtyard wall took many months and three contractors to get right – it was ultimately done by Andrew Vassallo. Inside, the double-shade light fits with the mood. Tableware courtesy of OneTwoOne
S
tephanie and Chris Camilleri had been hunting for a house in the area of Lija for two years before they found this one. ‘We could never find anything we liked in our budget, but then, finally, we saw this house,’ says Stephanie. It ticked most of the boxes – as well as the location being spot on, it was a house of character with the stone in a good condition. ‘It was my husband’s dream to have a house like this, but it also fitted our sense of style which is classic with a modern twist,’ says Stephanie. The bedrooms were a good size with high ceilings and the house was full of light thanks to a skylight that had been inserted in the centre of the house, pulling light down from above the first floor to the ground. However, the big downside to this house was the size of the original kitchen which the couple considered too small, and they almost didn’t buy the house for this reason. ‘It was always our wish that the kitchen be the main focus of the house since we believe it to be the heart of a home,’ says Stephanie. Stephanie’s brother, though, is architect Alan Galea and he suggested relocating the kitchen to the space beneath
the skylight, making it the room around which the other two living spaces pivot. This is what has been done, and this one architectural move has ensured a home that works perfectly for the couple. Making the house habitable, however, was a longer and, at times, more complicated process. As with many older properties, it had to be completely re-wired and re-plumbed so the entire ground floor was reduced to a shell before the re-building could commence. The issues of damp and humidity were addressed with a layer of concrete as well as a membrane, beneath the travertine navona tiles. The end result, though, is elegantly stylish. The flooring downstairs is entirely travertine, the natural material complementing the stone. Laid in a herringbone pattern, it immediately gives the area character. ‘Alan suggested using this pattern to help disguise the fact that the rooms are irregularly shaped,’ says Stephanie. ‘There are no walls parallel to each other downstairs!’ Step through the front door to find a welcoming large entrance with original stone walls and arches, which were
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Kitchen: the space was made light by clearing the skylight and making the space a more linear one by removing two arches (put in recently and so not original to the house) and replacing it with one squared off opening. The kitchen itself is from Joinwell. The island is used as a clear worktop and place to eat, and two sets of tall cupboards, one for appliances, the other as a pantry, balance the wooden look, with plain, white glossy units on the wall much less intrusive. The worktop is quartz and there is a glass splashback
treated and re-grouted. This room leads to the living room, decorated with modern custom-designed furniture, contrasting against the classic antique style of the entrance. Follow the light to the right, and this is the kitchen, a wonderful space with natural daylight and arguably the home’s strongest feature. The island is used as a clear worktop and place to eat, and two sets of tall cupboards, one for appliances, the other as a pantry, balance the wooden look, with plain, white glossy units on the wall much less intrusive. The dining room is found towards the back of the house and this is where one finds the most frustrating part of the project – the huge glass door that swings and slides open to the yard. ‘It seems like such a simple idea but it took 13 months and three different companies to get it right,’ says Stephanie. It was worth it, though, as when the door is open the dining area merges into the yard and they have an inside-outside feel. ‘In warm weather, I can extend the table as needed,’ says Stephanie. Upstairs feels luxurious as the corridor that leads to the bedrooms is open so not only do you get the benefit of the light, you can look down onto the kitchen. The ensuite bathroom of the master bedroom is contained behind opaque glass, which allowed the room to gain an extra few centimetres – crucial in a small bathroom – but also keeps the room feeling bright. The transformation was a year in the making but now, having moved in and lived in it for many months, the travails are forgotten. ‘We couldn’t be happier with the home that we built,’ says Stephanie.
Arched ceiling: from the kitchen area, the original arches can be seen, a contrast to the modern look of the cooking space. Glass vase from Left Bank
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‘It was always our wish that the kitchen be the main focus of the house since we believe it to be the heart of a home’
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Master bedroom: the original Maltese tiles give the room warm colour and are allowed to stand out by the uncluttered approach to furniture. A portion of the bedroom was separated off to become a small wet-room style bathroom. The glass doors a gave the room extra valuable centimetres and also keeps the room feeling bright as the glass does not absorb the light from the window. Pillows from NEXT
Corridor: the long upstairs corridor is flanked by the original stone walls on one side, and the decorative balustrade on the other
Dressing room (left): situated off the bedroom, the dressing room is for both Stephanie and Chris. Once accessible from the corridor, the wall was closed off and an extra shelving unit for storage added 050
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A STRONG FINISH
This small townhouse is bursting with great ideas that give a very modern spin to a traditional home‌ Photographs: Olja Grenner Words: Rachel Loos
Living room: Plywood cut into hexagonal shapes gives the room immediate interest. The sofa bed is an original G Plan that once belonged Jennifer’s grandfather. The coffee table, also G-Plan, was found in a market. Long shelves allow for useful objects to be decorative too
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limited budget does not have to mean an uninteresting home. That is certainly the lesson to be learned from this lovely townhouse in Floriana. Belonging to Jennifer Apap Brown and her husband, Rory, this was their first home, and although both are now highly successful interior architects, at the time there was not a lot of money to throw around which meant some clever thinking was needed to turn simple, inexpensive materials into something special. Over three storeys plus a roof terrace, the one-bedroom property is a mix of styles – the ground-floor dates back to the 19th century while the top floors were re-built post-war after bomb damage. It’s tall but not particularly wide so each floor fits only two rooms. When Jennifer and Rory bought the house it had been the office of a Swedish jeweller who had kept the original layout but, for security purposes, added an entirely cement-coated room on the first floor. It was one of the first things to go. ‘It was a lot of work but it had
to be done,’ says Jennifer. ‘We also opened up a lot of the walls so there would be more interconnection between the rooms on each floor as well as to make the best of the light that that flows in from both sides as the house is south-facing.’ The house has three terraces – off the living room, bedroom and study – with views over Malta and these, coupled with the high levels of light mean that although the house is only about 70 square metres, it doesn’t feel small. The walls have mostly been painted white which helps accentuate the light, and along with the original stone ceilings and timber beams, creates a neutral palette from which to decorate. The most talked about feature is possibly the monochromatic cement tiles that give subtle decoration in the hallway and study. ‘I wanted to stay with the Maltese feel and I love this type of tile that you find outside churches – they’re more a print than a colour,’ says Jennifer. ‘I’m often asked where they come from - I actually
‘It’s all about taking simple materials and installing them in a designed way’
Study (above right): the patterned cement tiles here and in the hallway give the room subtle decoration and are a twist on the usual brightly coloured residential Maltese tiles 053
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Kitchen: the room is too small for a separate dining table so Jennifer re-covered an old table with marble and installed a hob to create a cooking come dining hub. The kitchen is from Arclinea
Stairwell: Jennifer painted the handrail of a traditional Maltese balustrade black giving the space a nice design touch
found them in the garden of a house that was being demolished, so my husband and I dug them up, cleaned them, dried them and had them re-laid.’ On the first floor are the kitchen and downstairs bathroom and here one finds the unusual choice of orientated strand board (OSB), sealed with resin, on the floor, the strands of wood adding visual interest. ‘It was cost efficient but also gives texture,’ says Jennifer. In the living room, Jennifer and Rory had plywood cut into equal hexagonal shapes which were then laid and sealed. In the bedroom, plywood was cut as parquet. ‘It’s all about taking simple materials and installing them in a designed way,’ says Jennifer. More creative thinking can be found with the kitchen furniture. Here Jennifer re-covered an old table with marble and installed a hob on it to create a cooking come dining island. ‘The room is too small to have a separate dining table so this way there is a place to socialise in the kitchen,’ she says. The house took two years to finish. ‘We did bits as we got the money to do it,’ says Jennifer. The end result is definitely worth the wait.
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Bedroom (top and above): plywood has been cut to resemble parquet and then sealed to give a smart finish. Storage was made bespoke to fit into the window cavities to make the most of the space, and can be hidden away behind curtains. Behind a tall wardrobe is a small dressing room area which leads out onto the balcony
Bathroom: the ensuite shower room is small but the white rectangular tiles laid in a herringbone pattern give it an interesting look. The marble sink adds a luxurious touch
Bathroom: as it is also on the ground floor, it shares the same flooring as the kitchen. An accent wall is created with lovely blue tiles that were old stock at a timber merchant. Jennifer painted an old table white and resurfaced it with marble and then plumbed in a basin. The light is a market find
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Terrace: one of three outside spaces, this terrace has a fantastic view, and is a great place for alfresco dining
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358, Naxxar Road, B'Kara BKR 9040, Malta Tel: (+356) 21441328 I Fax: (+356) 21447188 www.bathroomdesign.com.mt www.facebook.com/bathroomdesignmalta
AD14.indd 57 Design v2.indd 12 HW83 Bathroom
08/05/2017 05/05/2017 04:06 17:10
THE GREATEST SUCCESS IN THE KITCHEN IS TO FILL YOUR STOMACH WITH IMAGINATION
valley road, birkirkara doimo@micra.com.mt | 20101837
Ad 15.indd 58 Micra advert.indd 1
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LIVING SPECIAL HW
LIVING ROOM SPECIAL It’s the place to kick back and relax but also the place to entertain. The living room is a tricky space to get right as it has to be stylish but at the same time be comfortable, and there are many different elements to take into account. Over the next 12 pages be inspired by beautiful living rooms, the latest trends and stylish furniture and accessories‌ Zalf living room, at Form
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LIVING ROOM UPDATE
ON YOUR METAL Metallics add warmth and a subtle sense of glamour to the room. Copper was big in 2016 – this year gold and brass are being re-discovered. Don’t go overboard, though – stick to accessories such as vases, such as these from BoConcept, mirrors, candlesticks and lighting
THE HOT TRENDS AND NEW PRODUCTS…
FLOWER POWER Florals are big and bold as seen in this fabric, ‘Artémis Nymphe’ from Elitis (from Camilleri Paris Mode) where flowers blossom on an enormous scale for a dream-like quality. Use them to make statement curtains which are an easy way of adding personality to a room, or upholster an armchair to create a chic accent chair. 060
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LIVING SPECIAL HW WALLPAPER WOW Wallpaper is still a major trend but the feature wall has evolved to become the mural – instead of a repeating pattern, one beautiful image across the entire wall, bringing it to life. A mural belongs on the wall to which your attention is drawn when you enter a room, and avoid windows and doors breaking up the design. It also needs to be well-lit. The other key trend is to wallpaper an entire room, using a paper that is all about texture rather than stand-out pattern.
Anthology’s Aspronisi paper (far left, from Fabulous), with its brushstroke style embossing. Pierre Frey’s Cloud paper (left) creates a painterlystyle mural while the woven-look Talamone paper adds texture (both from Camilleri Paris Mode)
TABLE DECORATIONS Coffee and side tables have become ornate with gold leaf mirrors, design inlays and metallics adding an extra decorative layer to a room. This selection is from Camilleri Paris Mode. 061
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WRITE IT LARGE
DO BLUE
Letters, whether they be illuminated slogans, or single letters that bring a graphic touch can be found in many a decorating scheme right now. Brass wire monogram letters from NEXT Home
Update your sofa with cushions in one of this season’s favourite colours blue. (Above: left to right) BoConcept, Debenhams and Matalan
LIGHT THE WAY Use lighting to add spark to your living room. Don’t just think chandeliers when looking for a statement pendant light - this Lederam lamp from Catellani&Smith (at Light Design Solutions) combines an unusual shape with metallic sheen. For the table, Hay’s Cloche Table lamp (below) arched profile combined with a domed spun metal shade gives a retro luxury from Loft
SCANDI COOL Scandi style monochrome is an elegant way of doing the current nature trend. The monochrome Nordica collection at One Two One features leaf trails and woven stripes in linen as well as interesting frayed yarn effects. 063
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STORAGE MADE STYLISH Open-plan storage is definitely a thing right now with shelves that show off your books and chic accessories, adding an extra layer of decoration and texture. Go one step further with shelves that are decorative in their own right. South American Vibe by MD House, at Oxford House
Lola Glamour, at Satariano Home
Zalf collection, at Form
ADD AN ACCENT
The trend for an accent armchair adding a design twist with an armchair in a contrasting style or colour to the sofa or a sofa and armchair combination - just gets stronger. Another option is to create a separate cosy reading area with the perfect curl-up-and-read armchair. Athena chair by BoConcept,
Pandora chair at Carmelo Delia
Archibald armchairs, at Satariano 064
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every great moment deserves a great frame..
Framing Services - Printing Services - Wallpaper & Mural - Art On Glass Print on Wood - Oil Painting - Glass Manifestation Consult. Design. Manufacture. Install.
www.decomanufacturing.net Gallleries:
AD17.indd Deco.indd 165
B 8A. Industrial Estate. Bulebel. Zejtun
Eucharistic Congress Road. Mosta
Naxxar R.oad. San Gwann
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HW LIVING SPECIAL
ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY? How do you choose a sofa? Think about the space – your sofa needs to feel balanced in it. Too large and it will overwhelm; too small and it will make a room look and feel out of kilter. Corner sofas are great for larger spaces as they immediately create a more intimate area with which to work. If you have a smaller space choose a more compact sofa with a low back as it won’t dominate the room so much. As for colour, a neutral sofa allows you to introduce colour more flexibly with textiles and other accessories, but a coloured one does make a statement!
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LIVING SPECIAL HW 5.
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1. Fusion sofa, at Carmelo Delia 2. Herman sofa by Natuzzi, at Form 3. Gemini sofa, at Feydom 4. Copenhagen sofa by BoConcept, at Brands International 5. Philo sofa by Natuzzi, at Form 6. Osaka curved armrest sofa, by BoConcept at Brands International 7. Grantorino sofa by Poltronafrau, at Satariano Home 8. Vox sofa, at Carmelo Delia 9. Scandi-style sofa at JYSK 10. Tempo Sofa, at Granny Smith 10.
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HW LIVING SPECIAL
LIVING ROOM INSPIRATION BE INSPIRED BY THESE SUPER-STYLISH ROOMS FULL OF IDEAS
STYLE SYMMETRY
The visual balance of two of the same sofas placed opposite each other and connected by a rug create an instantly stylish look. A yellow table lamp breaks up the neutral colour palette. Zalf collection at Form.
TRUE ELEGANCE
A luxurious corner leather sofa is beautifully co-ordinated with a large Berberstyle rug and dark coffee table. An Old Masters style painting gives the room an interesting design twist. Poltrona Frau sofa at Satariano Home.
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LIVING SPECIAL HW
ART SMART
Interior and lighting designer Maria Mercieca of m+design used large-scale images in deep red for strong visual impact and warmth against the pale colour scheme.
BE CRAFTY The crochet style rug on the floor adds a pretty touch and wooden chairs introduce the warmth of wood which helps give a more laidback feel.
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STUDY IN GREY
A modular sofa in pale grey is teamed with white, pale wood and tactile fabrics for cool comfort. All BoConcept at Brands International
SHAPELY DOES IT Relaxed, low-slung sofas in contrasting shapes and colours along with accents in black create a relaxed mood. Desiree sofas at Satariano Home
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HW LIVING SPECIAL
THE FINISHING TOUCHES THE MOST WONDERFUL PART OF PUTTING A LIVING ROOM SCHEME TOGETHER IS ADDING THE DECORATIVE ELEMENTS, SAYS INTERIOR DESIGNER KATJA WIEDERSUM OF DESIGN HOUSE. IT IS THESE ACCESSORIES THAT DELIVER THE VISUAL EXCITEMENT OF COLOUR AND TEXTURE AND GIVE YOUR HOME ITS INDIVIDUAL PERSONALITY. HERE’S HOW… FOCAL POINTS Art is an expression both by the artist and by the person who buys their work. If you want a light airy feel for your home, choose large pieces for your walls but let them ‘whisper rather than ‘scream’ - although large, an artwork does not need to overwhelm, but to complement what else is in the room. Choose a painting or sculpture to evoke an emotion, as well as to complement a colour scheme or even highlight an architectural feature and/or architectural lines within the space. A long white wall cries out for a gallery of artworks but keep the individual pieces on the minimal side to avoid it overwhelming the space.
MIX UP YOUR TRIOS Objects arranged in odd numbers are more appealing, memorable and effective than those arranged in evennumbered groupings. This because with odd numbers, your eye is forced to move around more which makes for a more interesting visual experience. Vary the size and colour of pieces in a group for interest.
TEXTURE UP Think tactile – it’s great to be able to run your fingers across a wooden table or through a fur, rather than always being in contact with steel, glass or plastic.
USE GREENERY TO CREATE HEIGHT Branches and tall blooms are an elegant way to create dimension in small spaces or to enhance the height of the ceiling.
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LIVING SPECIAL HW
POP IN SOME METALLIC Muted or vintage bronze, copper or brass - all you need is a hint such as a lampshade or vintage ornament to add rich colour to a space
COLOUR INVENTORY If your living rooms feels dull and uninteresting, start by looking at the colours in it. Does one hue dominate? ( Yes brown counts!) Is every colour a neutral? If this is the case, liven things up by adding one or two bold colours through accent pieces such as a bowl of bright green apples, an azurecoloured coffee table book...
STEAL A REFLECTION A mirror’s capacity to bounce light around a room and hold a scene within its reflection makes it a dynamic decorating device. Place it where it will bring sunshine into the room or enhance a corner with its captured ‘scenes’.
LOVE VELVET Velvet will make your house look and feel super luxe because of its amazing texture. Whether it’s a statement velvet sofa or an array of cushions, velvet gives the illusion of luxury. However, the key to velvet is subtlety – don’t go overboard.
GET SOME HYGGE This of-the-moment Danish concept (pronounced ‘hue-gah’), is best described as the philosophy of enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Do whatever makes you happy – this is the essence of what it means to feel hygge; from lighting candles to growing plants, making a nook to snuggle up in a blanket. Make your living room the place you want it to be, not what you feel it should be like.
BE QUIRKY It is very important to include something eccentric into every design scheme as a home needs a bit of fun, something quizzical and vibrant; an eclectic piece that has been collected during your life and has original appeal or a quirky ‘something’ that highlights the clash of antique or modern. 073
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HW SHOP
SHOP
See Address Book on Page 097 for stockist information
Inspired by Scandinavian design FASLEV sofa and armchair set will make any living room look elegant. this 3-seater sofa wrapped in a light grey polyester fabric is flexible thanks to its reversible chaise which allows you to choose the side of placement. JYSK
With spring in full swing and summer fast approaching, it is time to equip your home with some fresh curtains. At Big Ben Interiors you will find a variety of patterns and colours to add a charming touch to your home this season.
Pitré Home has a wide variety of tables & chairs, cutlery, ceramics and glassware. Open 6 days a week, 10 hours a day. Pitré Home
Pitré Home caters for all your home needs, which also includes chinaware, mirrors and decorative ornaments. Open 6 days a week, 10 hours a day. Pitré Home
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Pitré Home carries a huge range of wall art, chairs and candlesticks. Open 6 days a week. 10 hours a day, Pitre Home
See Address Book on Page 097 for stockist information
08/05/2017 04:14
SHOP HW This exclusive armchair HUMBLE with footstool can be a great addition to your living space. This leather look armchair with oak veneer sviwel base and stepless tilt mechanism will definetely be an ideal place to relax after a long day. JYSK
A perfect example of comfort combined with the elegance of Scandinavian design, the KAPPEL armchair is great idea for any living room. It has a Foam seat, covered with dark grey polyester fabric set on four solid oak legs with stabilizing metal cross bar. Oiled legs for wood protection will make this piece look beautiful for many years to come. JYSK
One Two One have a wide selection of high-quality fabrics. We also offer made-to-measure curtain and blind service as well on sight consultations by our design consultants. One Two One
A variety of cast iron and solid brass bedsteads in a wide choice of styles ranging from classical, contemporary and modern. Featuring extra long life base frames tested to British standards. Sizes are available in 90, 122, 135, 150 and 180cm widths! GrannySmithShop Furniture & Interiors
The finishing touches make all the difference to a home; find yours with decorative accessories at Matalan. From pretty ornaments to tea light holders, you’ll love the new collection. Matalan, The Strand, Sliema & Zabbar Road, Fgura.
See Address Book on Page 097 for stockist information
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The More White 2017 catalogue showcasing the latest lighting trends from the renowned German brand SLV has been launched. Make the most of the SLV Lighting Event this May and benefit from fantastic savings on stock items from the brand, whilst being able to collect a copy of the catalogue in store. ESS Ltd.
Madison Manor and Hinkley Bolla by Elstead lighting – UK, exclusively available at VCT Ltd
Mobi is an iconic led table lamp inspired by the timeless novel by Carlo Collodi: “The Adventures of Pinocchio.” The whale-shaped feature makes it a unique lamp of its kind which, when turned on, reveals on its inside the famous puppet’s silhouette. The indoor version with cable and G9 cold light led bulb is available in 9 illuminable colours (IL) while the RGBW rechargeable battery version with remote control, guarantees 8 hours of light. Find it at Light Design Solutions
At ECB you will find an extensive range of goods, from catering equipment to household items. With new stock coming in every month you will always find what you are looking for. ECB 076
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The Scandinavian brand Sagaform is all about joyful and innovative gifts for the kitchen and beautifully dressed tables – both indoors and out. Gifts you will love giving to others but equally love to spoil yourself with. These serving bowls, sold in a set of 2, are fun, original and perfect for serving ice-cream & other deserts. Available from Debenhams
See Address Book on Page 097 for stockist information
08/05/2017 04:15
SHOP HW
KitchenAid® mixers are the choice of generations of cooks from beginners to professional chefs. They are ideal for cake mixing, egg whisking, cream whipping and to knead bread dough. Available in 27 different colours, the KitchenAid® Artisan Mixer brings style to your kitchen. KitchenAid – Forestals
Weber is the world’s premier manufacturer of charcoal, gas, and electric grills, and grilling accessories. Weber is not just about barbequing, but a belief in cooking delicious food outdoors and having fun, creating happy memories for you, your family and your friends. All Weber products are built to the highest specifications using premium grade materials and components and every product goes through rigorous testing to ensure quality and durability. Weber BBQ’s – Forestals
Our handmade kitchen sinks are crafted for optimum comfort whilst maintaining a stylish design. They’re finished off with a radius of 10mm corners rather than a 90 degree corner which allows easier cleaning. Sinks come in different models, are all 1.2mm thick and come in different finishes such as copper, and gun metal. We also offer high quality brass bathroom fittings, and accessories equipped with a 10 year warranty. Visit us on www.bridgepoint.com.mt
Bomann Professional automatic juicer in high-quality stainless steel housing. Perfect for fresh fruit and vegetable juices which can be quickly prepared. The Bomann juicer provides 30% more juice and vitamins to help you keep fit and healthy. The Bomannn Automatic Juicer is available from A&A Mizzi
The Ecosoft under sink unit is a five stage water purifying system guaranteed to provide the healthiest most purified drinkable water. This unit comes with a 10 litre plastic kemflo storage tank that fills in just over one hour. Models are also available for semicommercial use and locations where larger amounts of purified water are required. The heavy duty pump carries a five year warranty on the motor. Available from A&A Mizzi
See Address Book on Page 097 for stockist information
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Sonos is the wireless Home Sound System that sets up quickly and makes listening easy. Use the free app to connect directly to your home WiFi network and send different songs to different rooms at the same time.Or enjoy one big favourite in perfect sync all through your house. Sonos plays all the most popular music services, internet radio, audiobooks, podcasts and music downloads. Forestals / Matrix
The Roomba robot vacuum cleaners give you cleaner floors, throughout your entire home, all at the push of a button.They are designed to seamlessly navigate an entire level of your home, keeping track of their location and recharging as needed until the job is done. The AeroForce™ Cleaning System with Carpet Boost automatically increases power on carpets where it’s needed most. And with the iRobot HOME App, you can clean and schedule on the go Forestals – Mriehel | Forestals @ Distinct Homes – Victoria, Gozo
Perfect Fit Blinds are a relatively new invention and consist of a blind within a four-sided aluminium frame that wraps around the glass of your PVC window. Perfect Fit Blinds look particularly well in areas such as conservatories and sunrooms or other areas where there are several uPVC windows or doors side-by-side. Perfect Fit Blinds are also a great solution if your windows open in to your rooms such as the ‘tilt and turn’ window. Blinds & More
Only €1,175.00 and in stock!! Complete bedroom set including 6 door wardrobe (240x55x240), chest of drawers (105x42x75h), mirror (90x2s60h), two bedside tables(45x35x43) and storage bed with hydraulic lift up system. Takes mattress size 160x190. Delivery and assembly included. TCA apply. GrannySmith Shop
Introducing Home Connect - smart connectivity for an easier life. To use the new home appliances from Bosch with Home Connect capability, you need a smartphone or tablet with Wi-Fi. The Home Connect app for these appliances can be downloaded for free from the App Store and the Google Play Store. Home Connect is a service of the Home Connect GmbH. Available from Oxford House 078
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Aquapol.indd 79
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Don’t compromise on the quality of your sleep. Unique value on bases, storage beds, mattresses & accessories. Visit us today and discover the meaning of restful sleep.
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Well being.indd 80
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www.wellbeingbedding.com
08/05/2017 04:16
HW
OUTSIDE IN GARDENS
FOOD
TRAVEL
MOVING ON UP The Olympic Bar and Restaurant in Mosta, best-known as ‘ix-Xufi’, now has a great new look upstairs. Designer and photographer Sean Mallia teamed up with architect Kyle Calleja to create a stylish and contemporary aesthetic for this famous food and drink institution. Fusing industrial and monochrome with raw wood and greenery for a room that is pared back but not cold, design highlights include the clever use of traditional-style Maltese tiles, the group of mis-matched pendants and the vertical green wall, the plants adding a shot of refreshing green. If the makeover goes down well, then the ground floor will also be given the Mallia/Calleja treatment. Fingers crossed!
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HW NEWS
A Very Historic Hotel China is experiencing a multi-million yen hotel boom with new openings numbering in the hundreds each year. The luxury market is especially strong with many of the big names opening multiple hotels over the next few years. One particularly striking property is the resort from the uber-luxurious Aman group that’s opening this autumn – called Amanyangyun, it features 50 historic Ming and Quing village houses that have been moved from their original location and rebuilt, along with thousands of 2000-year-old Camphor trees that have also been relocated. However, the impetus of the mass move was not the creation of the resort that’s just outside Shanghai. It was actually masterminded by Chinese business Ma Dadong who was so upset to discover that the construction of a reservoir would result to the loss of 300 villages and a forest of ancient trees, he set out to save them. The 10-year conservation project was done with the help of botanists, engineers, craftsmen and experts in Chinese architecture, and re-building the historic homes meant understanding 400 year-old building techniques, and along the way they discovered detailed carvings and reliefs. Now, the 50 reconstructed houses have become 26 ‘antique villas’ for guests along with other amenities. In keeping with the mood of the resort, guests will be able to learn calligraphy and the tea ceremony. www.aman.com
BOTANICAL BEAUTY Nothing says summer likes flowers and this 16-piece porcelain dinner set is just the thing for an alfresco table. The set includes four dinner plates, four side plates and four bowls. Team with smoky glass for a chic look. NEXT Home
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Specialising in bathroom fittings, accessories, and kitchen mixers.
NOW ALSO introducing a range of kitchen sinks.
Psaila Street, Santa Venera / +356 2147 2241 www.bridgepoint.com.mt
Ad 21.indd 83
08/05/2017 04:16
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As specialists in the supply and installation of outdoor decking we offer a range of options from solid wood in IPE or Teak as well as the practical WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) for that maintenance-free solution. Under the decking a steel sub structure is created using galvanised pipes as opposed to wood, making it more robust and without the need to drill/attach to the ground (ideal for roofs with membrane). Whatever the outdoor area - we have a decking solution.
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Ad 22.indd 84
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GARDEN HW
get some
GARDEN WOW LOOKING FOR SOME IDEAS FOR THE GARDEN? VINNY VELLA FROM PISCOPO GARDENS GIVES HER FAB FOUR…
Cupressus Goldcrest gives striking colour as its distinctive lime green foliage stands out. Place one either side of a door or gate to creates a grand entrance. Another plus it that is gives off a lemony scent when you brush against it. It’s a versatile plant that can stay both indoors and outdoors although if it’s outside and in direct sunlight, it may start to take on a yellowish hue. The key to keeping this plant happy is water, water and more water – it is imperative to keep it moist and well-watered at all times, especially if it is going to be kept outdoors.
Pelargonium is a seasonal must have. Part of the geranium family, it has quite distinct flowers and colours. It is great for sunny locations that need to be filled as they are heat tolerant. The leaves are also more distinct than the traditional geraniums, with lealflets on either side of the stem, and rougher to the touch. It needs a large pot – usually bigger than the ones it comes in – and plant it directly in compost.
Red flowering bottle brush is another from Australia (there are yellow and pink versions, but the red remains the most popular). With its bright flowers at this time of year, it is quite a centerpiece. Usually available as a bush, it comes in different sizes and can also be grown as topiary. It requires the same conditions as the blue hibiscus.
Alyogina Santa Cruz, also known as the blue hibiscus, has a unique colour making it a stand-out addition to the garden. Native to Australia, but perfect for the Maltese climate, it requires the same conditions as the typical traditional red hibiscus – lots of water and fertilizer to keep it flowering. What makes it special is the number of flowers it produces - flowering buds begin in spring, the leaves following afterwards. If planted directly in the soil, you can water it less frequently once it established itself. If kept in a pot, regular watering and fertilizing are required.
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HW FOOD & WINE
Simply
Delicious
Tuscany’s Silver Coast is known for every day ingredients cooked to bring out their flavour and for sharing with family and friends. Here are three recipes from new cookbook, Aquacotta, that celebrates its cuisine... Recipes: Emiko Davies Photography: Lauren Bamford & Emiko Davies Wine recommendations: Georges Meekers, Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker Aquacotta published by Hardie Grant
Pictured: L’acquacotta Viterbese Viterbo-Style Acquacotta. See page 089 for recipe 086
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FOOD & WINE HW
POLPO E PATATE OCTOPUS AND POTATO BRAISE Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 kg octopus 3 garlic cloves, whole 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil 125 ml white wine 500 gr potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks 1 large handful flat-leaf (Italian) parsley, leaves picked and finely chopped Juice of 1 lemon
METHOD Prepare the octopus by first rinsing it under a tap. Feel around the tentacles and make sure they are free of any particles, especially if you have bought it fresh. Remove the eyes and clean the inside of the head thoroughly, but otherwise leave the octopus whole. Put the garlic in a tall pot with a tight-fitting lid. Pour over 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat gently to infuse the oil for a few minutes. Add the octopus and turn the heat up to medium; cook for 2 minutes and let it colour all over. Pour over the wine, bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover and cook over low heat for about 45 minutes. Check for tenderness – a fork pierced through the thickest part should find no resistance (another 10–15 minutes of simmering, covered, may be necessary). In the meantime, put the potatoes in a medium saucepan, fill with cold water to cover and add a good pinch of salt. Bring to the boil and cook over medium heat for 12–15 minutes, or until soft. Drain. When the octopus is very tender, take it off
the heat and leave in the pot until cool enough to handle. Leaving the juices in the pot, drain the octopus on paper towel. If you’ve got a large octopus, you may need to peel it – the ‘skin’ should come off very easily, just by rubbing or scraping it gently. Small ones won’t need this treatment. Chop it into 5 cm pieces. Return the octopus to the juices in the pot, along with the potatoes. Add the parsley and lemon juice plus the rest of the olive oil, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to combine and serve warm or cold with plenty of bread to mop up the sauce. If planning to serve leftovers cold the next day, drain the stew of its juices and keep them separate in the fridge. When you want to serve the octopus, think of it more as a salad. Some crunchy slices of celery or some black olives make nice additions. Reheat the reserved juices just until they become liquid again and add a spoonful to dress the octopus, along with some olive oil and a little extra lemon juice. Toss together.
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HW FOOD & WINE
ORATA AL CARTOCCIO CON I FUNGHI PAPER-BAKED SEA BREAM WITH MUSHROOMS Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 2 medium gilthead sea bream, about 500–600 gr each, scaled and cleaned 2 handfuls fresh herbs, such as thyme, basil, oregano, calamint, mint, flat-leaf (Italian) parsley and rosemary 2 lemons, 1 sliced, 1 juiced 80 ml extra - virgin olive oil 2 garlic cloves, sliced 400 gr mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
METHOD Make sure the fish have been scaled and cleaned, and remove the fins with kitchen scissors; rinse and pat dry. Cut 3 slashes about 1.5 cm (1⁄2 in) deep along the fleshiest part of the fish, on both sides. Season with salt and pepper, rubbing it into the slices and skin. Sprinkle salt in the belly cavities, then stuff with about two-thirds of the herbs and a few slices of lemon to fill. Set aside in the fridge until needed. Pick the leaves from the remaining herbs. Heat half the olive oil in a frying pan and cook the garlic over medium heat for 1 minute. Add the mushrooms and the rest of the herbs and cook in the oil until golden and softened, about 5–6 minutes. Allow them to cool. Heat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Tear a large sheet of baking paper for each fish – about double the length of the fish – and distribute the mushrooms in the middle. Place the fish on top of the mushrooms, then pour over the lemon juice and drizzle with the rest of the olive oil. Wrap the fish in the paper – bring together the long edges of the paper, folding them down together so they overlap slightly. The short sides can be folded at the fish’s tail and head, towards the middle of the fish and secured with a piece of kitchen string, like a present. Bake for about 20–25 minutes. Remove the fish from the oven and let it sit, wrapped, for 5 minutes before serving. If using a different-sized fish, you may need to double-check if the fish is cooked properly. To check, unwrap the paper carefully (escaping steam is hot). Take a knife and see if the skin and flesh easily lifts off near the spine. Also look at the gashes – they should reveal opaque, soft meat. If not, wrap it back up and put it back in the oven and check in 5-minute increments. To serve, you can transfer the whole fish to a long oval plate, dribbling the juices and mushrooms over the top. But I prefer to place it right on the plate, as it is, still sitting in its paper.
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FOOD & WINE HW
L’ACQUACOTTA VITERBESE VITERBO-STYLE ACQUACOTTA Serves 4-6 INGREDIENTS 200 gr wild chicory (about 2 large bunches) 2 whole, unpeeled garlic cloves 2 small potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 300 gr tomatoes, chopped 4 slices stale bread (use a good, dense, wood-fired country loaf) 4 eggs Extra-virgin olive oil, to serve 1 handful chopped wild fennel and calamint, to serve
METHOD Carefully wash the wild greens several times over or until all the dirt has been removed. Wild chicory should have its root stubs scraped wellor cut off and any wilting leaves picked off. If they are particularly tough or large, you may need to chop roughly and give them some extra cooking time by blanching them first until tender. If they are young and small, then just use them as they are, in their tufts. Put the garlic cloves, potatoes, tomatoes and wild greens in a large saucepan and pour in 1 litre (34 fl oz/4 cups) of cold water. Season with a good pinch of salt and place over low–medium heat. Bring to a
simmer, stirring occasionally to distribute the vegetables evenly (the greens will wilt down soon enough). Cook for approximately 10–12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Taste the broth to check for seasoning and add salt and pepper as needed. In the meantime, prepare the bread slices – if using fresh bread, dry the slices out in a low oven until dry to the touch but not coloured (this is just like toasting but you want them to still be pale, so as not to affect the taste). Crack the eggs into the simmering soup and cover with a lid until the whites are cooked but the yolks are still runny,
about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Place a slice of bread in each shallow bowl and ladle over some soup topped with one egg. Let it rest for a minute before serving so that the bread can soak up the broth. Ideally, the bread should soak everything up and there should be no liquid in the bowl. If the bread is still dry in places, ladle over some extra broth from the pot. If there is any extra liquid present in the bowl, remove it with a spoon or some paper towel. Finish with a drizzle of very good olive oil and a generous handful of chopped wild fennel and calamint.
GEORGES' WINE RECOMMENDATIONS: L’ACQUACOTTA VITERBESE (above)
POLPO E PATATE (page 87)
ORATA AL CARTOCCIO CON I FUNGHI (top left)
N.V. GIRGENTINA FRIZZANTE, I.G.T. MALTESE ISLANDS
2016 VICTORIA HEIGHTS SHIRAZ ROSE, D.O.K. GOZO
2015 GRAN CAVALIER CHARDONNAY, D.O.K. MALTA
Hurrah for this delicious dry semi-sparkling wine which carefully preserves the simple and clean flavours of the dish. Its apple fruitiness mildens the slightly bitterness of the tufts of chicory whilst the Girgentina Frizzante’s pearly froth and minerality cuts through the texture of the mellow yolk, leaving you wanting more of it all. Eggs are not particularly wine friendly but Malta’s Girgentina Frizzante cracks it!
Why go for an obvious white? This delightful fresh and fruity Gozitan rosé, tasting of cut watermelon and cherries, is just the ticket. It certainly has the backbone to handle the octopus meat. It is a really sapid, savoury pink made entirely from Maltagrown Shiraz (or Syrah) grapes. The wine has a helpful fleshy structure with ample lushness that emphasises the marine character of the potato braise. Chill well.
The mushrooms act as the perfect foil for Chardonnay and Malta’s Gran Cavalier example is topflight with a smooth palate full of brioche and good heft. It flirts with the steamintensified paper-baked fish flavours. You’ll love the buttercream aromas in contrast with a zesty lime palate. Rich, ripe and classy, Delicata’s Chardonnay is such an obvious match that you might wonder if it’s worth considering anything else. Simply delicaticious!
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Palazzo Perfect THIS ISSUE WE CHECK IN TO LA FALCONERIA, A CHIC BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN VALLETTA Photographs: Alan Carville
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LA FALCONERIA IS THE FIRST PROPERTY FROM NEW BOUTIQUE HOTEL COMPANY, LA TOC HOTELS LTD. TO TRANSFORM THE PALAZZO FROM ITS RUNDOWN STATE, THE COMPANY ASKED INTERIOR ARCHITECT MARK G MUSCAT TO TAKE THE REINS. HERE, HE EXPLAINS HOW HE DID IT… What is the history of the building? The palazzo, whose entrance dates back to the time of the knights, was struck by enemy bomb-fire in World War II and sustained considerable damage. As a consequence, the rear of the building was re-constructed in the 1950s, with this new construction having no true architectural value. The name of the building was originally Casa Causi and must have been a palatial home owned by a nobleman. The street name was once Strada del Gran Falconiere as the Falconry of the Order of St John was located at the end of the street (what is now the British Legion), hence the inspiration for the hotel name. What condition was the property in when you bought it? The unconverted building consisted of a number of office, retail and residential spaces which shared the common staircase. All were in a dilapidated state and needed a complete overhaul. Most of the residential property had been vacant for years and was in a similarly bad condition. The restaurant itself was a retail outlet flanked by other offices at ground floor. These are now the hotel's reception and lounge areas. What were the challenges in transforming the building into modern accommodation? The main challenge was converting a building which was never envisioned as a hotel in one. The linking of all rooms to corridors and the implementation of structural changes which would retain the character of the existing
building without compromising its new use as a highend hotel was essential. Working within the confines of a historic city such as Valletta was also challenging from a logistic and project-management point of view.
‘The overlying concept was of reinterpreting the palazzo's baroque and retro charm in a contemporary manner so it was not a lifeless reproduction of the past’ What interior style was chosen for hotel and why? The approach to the hotel's interior was very much dependent on its past. The implementation of traditional materials normally found in Maltese townhouses, such as the cement tiles, marble staircases, marble corridors and the use of ironwork was considered a must. Throughout the process, there was a constant correlation between the necessities of a 21st-century hotel and maintaining the character of the building, therefore all materials, fittings and furniture chosen had a direct or indirect visual link to what may be found in townhouses
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of old. The overlying concept was of reinterpreting the palazzo's baroque and retro charm in a contemporary manner so it was not a lifeless reproduction of the past. Did you keep any of the original features? The vaulted entrance hallway, dating to the late sixteenth century was restored and retained pretty much as found. An old bell-well found beneath the building was cleaned and converted into a plunge pool to allow guests to use an otherwise inaccessible part of the building. The front facade was also fully-restored and its aesthetic faithfully retained. What are the stand out design details? The design of the hotel was carried out in a holistic manner, with all areas being given their due priority. The restaurant, L'Artiglio, was given much importance seeing as this was going to be used both by hotel guests and external patrons. Custom joinery in the form of ribbed wall-lining and bench seating was essential in giving the restaurant it's trattoria feel whilst still retaining other elements used throughout the hotel such
as the hand-made cement-tile flooring. Emphasis was placed on the bar area, accessed as one enters the restaurant. It was to be, along with the reception and entrance hall, the first part of the property guests sees, so a clean aesthetic using Statuario marble and backlit shelving was implemented. The same attention to detail was placed on the reception area and entrance hallway. All the salient features of the hallway were retained very much as found and the same sleek aesthetic used in the bar area was repeated at the reception desk with the use of bespoke oak joinery and marble. The selection of designer fittings, such as the Shanghai light by Davide Groppi over the reception desk, add to the area's refined finish. The cement flooring, found in the vast majority of rooms, was another key design element which helped give the hotel its unique character and traditional city feel. Three different patterns were used throughout, relating to the location and size of the rooms. www.lafalconeria.com
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ADDRESS BOOK AA Mizzi Triq is Salib tal - Imriehel, Mriehel 2148 8168 www.aamizzi.com Aquapol San Gwakkin Road, Zona Industrijali, Mriehel, Birkirkara 9942 1158 www.aquapolmalta@gmail.com Astral Enterprises Abate Rigord Street, Ta’ Xbiex 2134 0562 www.astral.com.mt B&M Supplies Triq Dun Karm, Birkirkara 2144 0710 www.bmsupplies.com.mt Bathroom Design 358, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara 2144 1328 www.bathroomdesign.com Big Ben 223 - 225, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara 2144 7347 www.bigben.com. mt
Deco Manufacturing Ltd Bulebel Gallery, 8A, Industrial Estate, Bulebel, Zejtun 2169 2576 www.decomanufacturing.net Deco Manufacturing Ltd 186, Eucharisitic Congress Road, Mosta 2169 2576 no 2
M. Demajo Timbers Olive Square, Qormi 2148 7078 www.demajotimbers.com Matalan The Strand, Tas- Sliema 2131 0811 www.facebook.com/matalanmalta/
Deco Manufacturing Ltd Naxxar Road, San Gwann 2169 2576 no 3
Muscat Motors Ltd Rue D’Argens Gzira 2326 4000 www.muscatmotors.com.mt
ECB 40 / 41, Marina Street, Pieta 2123 3331 / 2124 3440 / 2123 5119 www.ecb.com.mt
Muscat Pools Muscat Building, Triq Gammari Camilleri, Mgarr 2158 2761 www.muscatpools.com
ESS ESS Building, San Gwakkin Road, Mriehal, Birkirkara 2125 5777 www.ess.com.mt
Next Home Triq Bisazza, Sliema 2134 4156 www.next.com.mt
Fabulous Home Valley Road, Msida 2060 1107 www.fabulous.com.mt
one per cent Valley Road, Msida 2546 5000 www.onepercent.com.mt
Blinds & More 41, Naxxar Road, San Gwann 2787 8700 www.blindsandmore.com.mt
Feydom 190 Ground Floor, Marina Road, Pieta 2099 0980 www.feydom.com.mt
one two one 21st September Avenue, Naxxar / Que - si - Sana Seafront, Sliema 2142 2948 /9 --- 2132 3155/65 wwwonetwoone.eu
Boris Arcidiacono 233, Tower Road, Sliema 2133 3638 www.borisarcidiacono.com
FGP 109, Valetta Road, Luqa 2167 3627 www.fgp.com.mt
Oxford House Notabile Road, Mriehel 2546 4000 www.oxfordhouse.com.mt
BOV 58, Triq il-Kanun, Santa Venera 2131 2020 www.bov.com.mt
Firm B Pullicino 139, Bajada Street, Zabbar 2167 6627 www.facebook.com/firmbpullicino/
Pitre Home Ltd Joseph Pitre Ltd, Mdina Road, Qormi 2146 3335 /8 / 2746 3335 www.pitrehomemalta.com
Brands / BoConcept Brands International Ltd, Triq tal - Balal, San Gwann 2144 4110 www.brands.com.mt
Forestals Group of Companies Mriehel Bypass, Mriehel 2343 6000 www.forestals.com
R Living Mriehel Bypass,Qormi 2149 9699 www.rliving.com.mt
Bridge Point Old Railway Track, Santa Venera 2147 2241 www.bridgepoint.com.mt
Form Triq il -Wied Ta’ I - Msida, Msida 2144 6000 www.form.com.mt
Camilleri Paris Mode 54, St. Catherine Street, Rabat / Annunciation Square, Sliema 2010 2030 / 2134 4838 www.camilleriparismode.com Carmelo Delia Valley Road, Birkirkara 2147 2882 www.carmelodelia.com CAS Ltd 206, Triq il - Kappillan Mifsud, Santa Venera. 2123 0777 www.casmalta.com CME Finishes 264, St. Thomas Street, Fgura. 2180 7000 www.cmefinishes.com Debenhams The Point Shopping Mall, Pjazza Tigne, Tigne Point, Sliema 2247 2000 www.debenhams.com.mt
Granny Smith 85, St. Pauls Street, Naxxar. 2141 8984 www.grannysmith.com Halmann Vella The Factory, Mosta Road, Lija 2143 3636 www.halmannvella.com JYSK MDF Trading Triq Il -Mosta. Lija 2713 7364 www.jysk.com.mt Light Design Solutions Ltd Emmanuel Schembri Street, Birkirkara 2149 6843 www.lds.com.mt Loft 21, Triq San pawl, Naxxar 2099 9966 loft.com.mt
Satariano Marina Street, Pieta 2149 2149 www.satariano.com Shabby Chic 17, Ganu Street, Birkirkara 2144 2455 www.shabbychicmalta.com The Glow Company Luigi Catania, Hal Gharghur 7957 2143 www.glowcomalta.com The Mediterrenean Wellbing Company Ltd 5/6 Msida Valley Road, Birkirkara 2131 6678 www.wellbingbedding.com VCT Ltd Ponsomby Street, Mosta 2143 25712 www.nuovoprogetto1.altervista.org Vivo, Bathrooms & Ceramics Ltd 9 Geronimo Abos, L-Ikin 2093 2932 www.vivo.com.mt
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BLOSSOM CHANDELIER By Tord Boontje For SWAROVKSI
OVERNIGHT, THE GLITTERING BEAUTY OF THIS ICONIC DESIGN TRANSFORMED THE CHANDELIER FROM BEING FUSTY AND DATED TO MODERN AND COOL…
T
he event was called Crystal Palace and it re-invented the chandelier for modern times. Part of the Milan Furniture Fair back in 2002, the designerati were invited to a derelict warehouse where a series of showstopping chandeliers glittered in the darkness. The most evocative was Blossom, a chandelier in the form of a flowering cherry tree branch, its Dutch designer Tord Boontje imbuing cold, hard crystal with unexpected delicacy. Made from clusters of clear and rose-coloured crystals mixed with 240 LEDs on a metal branch, it was quite unlike anything that had gone before. ‘It brought romance back into the world of chandeliers,’ says Boontje. ‘I like crystal when it is used densely with an internal light, because it becomes very magical, like the ice palace of the fairy queen. By using LED we were able to place the light source directly next to the crystals, and best of all they could be programmed to flash on and off in sequence - all adding to the magic. The form of the blossom branch came from a
romantic idea. It is a place where crystal belongs.’ Boontje was one of a number of designers that had agreed to take part in Crystal Palace, a design project from crystal-makers Swarovski, with the aim of transforming the chandelier from an object that, at the time, was considered dull and traditional into one that was exciting and modern. ‘Before Crystal Palace, the classical chandelier, and crystal in particular, was not taken seriously by the contemporary design set,’ says Ilse Crawford, the curator of Crystal Palace. ‘So initially, when I approached some well-known designers, most of them refused.’ Boontje, like many of the others taking part, was a relative unknown. However, the first Crystal Palace was such a success that in the years since, many of the world’s biggest design names, including the late Zaha Hadid, designed chandeliers for Swarovski. Blossom, like all the chandeliers designed for Crystal Palace, was meant to be a one-off yet its beauty was so captivating that Swarovski responded to demand and put into production – and a design icon was born.
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