Architecture & Design

Architecture & Design | 5 Lulu Hotel, Zebbug of use of other materials such as wood, PVC and glass which are becoming increasingly popularity in modern design as they are partially replacing stone in walls and suspended floors. One may argue that Malta has lost a considerable chunk of its culture and traditions through the country's evolving way of life and the progress of the building industry. One must however recognise that this change is potentially unavoidable if Malta is to remain competitive. When youngsters decide to leave their family's trade to venture into less manual careers, these unequivocally leave a void behind them. However, they also create a demand for accommodation in their location of choice. Property which is vacated due to the closing of a business venture, or resulting from the necessity of a family to pursue a living elsewhere, does not necessarily decrease in value. In fact, vacated property is nothing less than a hidden opportunity for a venture which has yet to be housed within it. Most often the function of the restored vacated house differs from the original purpose for which it was constructed. Although it has frequently been pointed out that a new construction might stick out like a sore thumb when placed next to existing buildings, it is not impossible to strike a balanced merger through the careful eye of the designer. Over the past few decades, an increasingly community-conscious society has attempted to achieve the merging of old and new styles, architecture and functions. Architectural interventions vary from the 'tasteful' extensions of old buildings and the merging of new designs with old carved stones, to the transformation of use and function like the popular contemporary transformation of vacated domestic units into commercial outlets such as offices or boutique hotels. Moreover, on an urban planning level, when the areas to be restored include multiple units or areas, initiatives are being carried out by both public and private investors to breathe life back into abandoned quarters in various locations around Malta and Gozo, often changing the original use for which they were constructed. A meticulous architect will try to maintain old features when introducing modern design and materials, while at the same time establishing a cohesion between the old function of the building, its imminent use and the use and design of its immediate surroundings. A balanced merger is necessary for the old and new designs to coexist in harmony. Lulu Hotel, Zebbug Lulu Hotel, Zebbug

• Cover