Architecture & Design | 9
W
alking through Malta, one
is struck by the textures of
limestone, the warmth of natural
light, and the sense of history
embedded in every street corner. Yet, this
historic beauty sits alongside a proliferation
of modern apartment blocks and sprawling
construction, a reminder of the pressures on
the island's architectural identity. Balancing
heritage with contemporary development has
never been more urgent.
On our cover, Casa Depiro by Joanna Spiteri
Staines and Openworkstudio captures this
equilibrium: a living space where sunlight,
materials, and context converge to create a
home that feels both timeless and intimate.
As Spiteri Staines reflects, "Heritage can only
be preserved if it isn't overwhelmed by visual
'noise'…from afar, an intervention should
harmonise with its surroundings, while up
close it should remain distinguishable from
the historic fabric".
Across the projects featured in this issue,
that philosophy resonates. Architects are
approaching restoration and contemporary
design with care, imagination and a deep
understanding of place. From cultural
institutions to bespoke residences, their work
integrates environmental sensitivity, human-
scaled spaces, and thoughtful connections to
Malta's rich historical narrative, an antidote to
generic urban sprawl.
This issue celebrates the architects shaping
Malta's built environment today: those who
honour heritage, push creative boundaries,
and envision a future where architecture
enhances both the human and natural
landscape.
PUBLISHED BY
MediaToday Co Ltd
PUBLISHER AND
REGISTERED
EDITOR
Saviour Balzan
DISTRIBUTION
Free with the MaltaToday
HEAD OF SALES
Adriana Farrugia
afarrugia@mediatoday.com.mt
+356 2138 2741
EDITOR
Philippa Zammit
REGISTERED ADDRESS
MediaToday Co Ltd
Vjal ir-Riħan
San Gwann, Malta
CONTACT
Philippa Zammit
pzammit@mediatoday.com.mt
COVER
Casa Depiro
Design: Openworkstudio
Photo: Sean Mallia
