Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1502332
24 | Architecture & Design MAXIMISING THE POTENTIAL OF A GIVEN INTERIOR SPACE Engaging an interior architect and designer who is qualified by education and work experience helps to make the project more cost effective, unique and connected, as is seen in this apartment where the selected finishes, style and colour palette flow throughout the given interior space. This newly built apartment, which was originally planned by the architect as a three bedroom, had some structural alterations requested by the interior designer at the early stages of the project. This was to accommodate for a larger living and dining. The actual site works involved the removal of an existing wall of the once planned third bedroom, to allow for a large open kitchen that overlooks the dining and living space. Further structural works involved the opening of a new doorway into the master bedroom in order to allow for a larger shower-ensuite. DESIGN CONCEPTS AND FINISHES Following the latter alterations made, Martina opted to retain the original door opening to the master bedroom to create a design feature which includes sustainable finishes of bespoke and custom-made vertical natural timber uprights that form part of the wood panelling mentioned above. This timber feature is replicated and installed at the entrance, screening the living room space as one enters the apartment. To complement the finishes of this design feature, natural timber is introduced in the living and dining furniture, contrasting well with the grey and blue hues used on the joinery, panelled walls, textiles and soft furnishings, as well as in the kitchen design. Natural timber laminate is included in the kitchen's counter top, splash back and facades of the kitchen peninsula, again contrasting well with the grey laminate used for the kitchen's low and floor to ceiling cabinets. One of Martina's preferred kitchen design layouts includes the hob on a kitchen island or peninsula, overlooking a dining or living room space, allowing one to socialise whilst cooking. Noted in this space is the upholstered yellow mustard counter stools which complement the yellow brass metal included in the dining area. " Understanding the lifestyle of a client or the purpose of the project guides Martina into designing bespoke furniture and design features, as well as in her selection of finishes that make an interior space unique "