Architecture & Design

32 | Architecture & Design of artists to exhibit since the 1990s. The remarkable and unique juxtaposition of the vernacular building and the contemporary works of art, excite the senses and intrigue the minds, as well as offering a challenge in terms of espousing regenerative architectural principles. The restoration works also include sustainable interventions to improve the level of comfort within the building, the existing walls, which are relatively thick, provide sufficient insulation (thermal mass), however the roofs, which consist of a deffun finish, are relatively thin, and are a large source of heat gain and heat loss. For this reason, the intention is to install a green roof, which is reversible, since this will be placed above the existing roof. This is being led by Architect Antoine Gatt. The green roof, apart from providing an ecological stepping stone in an urban environment, also provides insulation, since this creates a barrier and vented gap/cavity above the existing roof. In fact, to ensure that this is possible all the timber beams have been tested, by Joseph Aquilina (of Queen's Furniture) and duly graded, so that their structural capacity could be calculated. This exercise will determine whether the beams are capable of withstanding the envisaged load in their current state, or whether these need to be duly strengthened. In addition to the green roof, all the rainwater is to be directed into the existing water reservoir beneath the Mill. This will be used as second class water to service the W.C. and also used for the upkeep of the green roof. Lastly, the timber apertures will be replaced with double glazed apertures, since today the existing apertures are single glazing and are a large source of heat gain. Apart from the restoration challenges as outlined above, another major challenge is that of the insertion of building services into a 18th century vernacular building, which is complemented with Caruana's art throughout the building. The building fabric (walls and floors) was at times Caruana's canvas. The engineers, Galea Curmi, together with TBA Periti, have been working on various options and solutions. Great care and detail are being taken to study the building to ensure that the service installations are sensitive. The Gabriel Caruana Foundation was awarded funds to implement the SKOPRI project, through the Post-Pandemic Support Scheme for Cultural Heritage by the Ministry for The National Heritage, The Arts And Local Government. This has allowed the Foundation to take this regenerative approach forward, ensuring that the rehabilitation of the building fabric and the use of this unique and significant space can continue to inspire future generations. An exhibition presenting the findings and proposals of SKOPRI will be launched in January 2023 at The Mill - Art, Culture and Crafts Centre. For further information about the Gabriel Caruana Foundation (VO1236) and to support this non-profit organisation visit www.gabrielcaruanafoundation.org Mill interior Photo credit: Elisa Von Brockdorff Mill exhibition Photo credit: Elisa Von Brockdorff

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