Dar Gwardamangia

The garden, a central element of the design, serves as the daily retreat for the clients. They are greeted by bold, tactile terrazzo flooring and a soothing body of water. The sounds and reflections from the pool create a serene Mediterranean ambiance, enhanced by Maltese architecture, Moroccan textures, and hints of Balinese bamboo.

The practice takes inspiration from nature and their work is recognised for sinuous shapes and harmonious, flowing spaces. This design ethos is evident throughout the house. The upper floor balcony uses capsule-shaped cutouts inspired by Arabic motifs, acting as a railing and referencing the arched windows and oak doors with their gunmetal handles. A white mesh staircase allows light to flood down through the house while keeping the space airy and open. All apertures are fitted with insect nets, giving natural ventilation and a courtyard-like cooling effect.

The practice is known for a love of craft and materiality, and this is evident in the use of carefully chosen materials that flow through the house. Verde Alpi terrazzo forms new entrance steps and guides the visitor through the interior space where it is also visible on kitchen countertops and in the bathrooms. The terrazzo really comes into its own with the unique casting of the material into a courtyard swimming pool acting as a centrepiece to the renovation. Clever use of glass on the edge of the pool allows for a careful eye to be kept on the children as they swim, filling the house with light and laughter.

The house looks back to Malta’s rich architectural heritage and at the same time recognises that its architect and owner is connected to a wider, global movement to work respectfully with the world around us.