Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1477178
25.08.2022 11 COMMERCIAL Contemporary architecture and design exhibition kicks off in Valletta Some of Malta's most recent contemporary architecture and design gems are on display in an outdoor photographic exhibition in Valletta. THE projects, winners of the Malta Architecture and Spa- tial Planning (MASP) Awards from the last two editions, showcase some of the best creative design efforts and celebrates the diversity and excellence to be found in con- temporary Maltese architec- ture. e architecture and interi- or design projects range from private residences, commer- cial and office buildings, pub- lic open spaces to theatres and innovation hubs. While this photographic ex- hibition will enchant passers- by through its subject matter, it also serves to drive the mes- sage that through excellence in design form an architectur- al project can be conducive to improving the quality of the built environment. e exhibition also serves to recognise the quality work of- fered by people across the ar- chitectural industry for their talent, expertise and crafts- manship. Such award-winning pro- jects take so much more to realise than is visible on the surface; it is a team effort that requires time, dedication, expertise and passion. e exhibition has a dedicated panel for each project, which includes a selection of photos, the jury's critique for having awarded the winning project and details of the team and firm behind the project. Among the projects that can be admired, one will find the Valletta Design Cluster, Villa Fiorentina and Casa Bottega, three historic buildings that were rescued from obsoles- cence and given a new lease of life through sensitive adaptive reuse. e Sterling HQ and e Saw Factory, also feature in the exhibition and demon- strate how high-quality contemporary industrial buildings can reverse the nondescript architecture that characterises such places. e PortomosoLaguna pro- ject stands out a high-quality solution to a design brief that required the prioritisation of the waterside location. Also on display are a num- ber of projects which re- ceived recognition for their high-quality interior design approach namely the Por- tughes Outlet in Ibraġġ, a Community and Nature Childcare Centre in Mosta and the residential transfor- mation of two villas in Lija and Kappara. One is also able to appreci- ate the Il-Pjazzetta and Roof Garden of the Design Cluster building which both are ex- emplary architectural works that created new public open spaces. Other fine works include the transformation of the Imperial Residential Home, the high-quality restoration of Teatru Manoel, the King George and Berta hotel, the Tipico Building and the Gozo Innovation Hub. "e objective of this initia- tive is to raise awareness and appreciation among the pub- lic for some of our country's contemporary architectural treasures, which, at times, go unnoticed because they are not the typical palazzo or auberge with grand facades. While these much-loved buildings from the time of the Knights and beyond are deservedly renowned, the Maltese modern architectur- al world also offers quality projects that promise to leave a positive mark for decades to come." says the PA's Executive Chairman, Martin Saliba. Launched in 2019 by the PA under the Patronage of the President of Malta, the MASP Awards are regard- ed as a prestigious calendar event and a mark of excel- lence in the industry. To date, the awards have al- ways included a repertoire of high profile foreign and local jury members and technical experts. is exhibition will be open for the public between the 12th August and 12th Sep- tember 2022.