Architecture & Design

Architecture & Design | 29 O L I V I A A C O N T E M P O R A R Y T A K E O N A C L A S S I C A L T O W N H O U S E T his transformative project aimed to honour the historical significance of the residence, originally designed by Architect Alberto La Ferla (1898-1942). La Ferla was known for his restrained take on classical forms, often doing without certain excesses of Art Nouveau popular at the time. Similarly, the approach of the contemporary intervention is informed by both tradition and modernism, inviting occupants into a space where the architectural evolution unfolds from the meticulously preserved façade to innovative internal interventions. Exploring the site's history and previous owners added depth to the design process. The traditionalism townhouse, located on the corner of Triq Guze Howard and Triq Gorg Borg Olivier, stands as a testament to Perit Alberto La Ferla's vision and influences. The previous owner of the house was the celebrated Dr Cecil Paris, known to many as "Sliema's Doctor". The immediate neighbourhood showed great interest in the project from the off, often stopping by the site to recount their personal memories of the house. These stories coloured the restoration project with a positive energy, which was channelled into the interventions. The end goal was clear: to show respect for the original fabric, highlighting architectural nuances through framing and contrasting colours. Adapting the townhouse into a family residence, the team at Archi+ embraced an open-plan concept with minimal internal alterations. The roof-level intervention introduced a Design Architect: Anthea Huber, Daphne Bugeja Structural Engineer: Fabio Spiteri Grech Conservation Architect: Andrea Bianco Planning Architect: Adrian Mangion Photography: Matthew Grech

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