RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

riad il- birgu

A heritage property that underwent a remarkable transformation, transitioning from a derelict two-story house to a distinctive four-floor contemporary residence. The reimagined design seamlessly blends old and new elements, incorporating natural materials and a moody neutral palette that imbues the space with captivating character.

 
 
 
 

Building Typology: Townhouse complete renovation

Size: 200 square meters

Year of Completion: 2022

Project use: Client’s Vacation Residence

Services Provided: Interior Design, Project Management, Furniture and Accessories design and procurement, Interior Styling, Art Direction

Photography: Alessandro Tento, Aleksandr Glicic

 

Situated within the historic Collacchio quarters of Birgu, Malta, this heritage property dates back to the era of the Knights, circa 1600. Prior to being acquired by the current owners, the two-story townhouse had stood uninhabited for the past 50 years. The building previously served as the residence of Archbishop Sir Mikiel Gonzi and is now a protected heritage site.

The design brief entrusted to Studio Nomad Interiors aimed to convert the existing structure to modern standards while preserving its original architectural character. The proposed renovation, intended to serve as a vacation home for the owners, needed to convey a sense of the property's heritage, while also offering an atmosphere of openness and comfort through a cohesive, minimalist design that seamlessly blends the original and new elements.

The design retained all the existing stone walls and predominantly utilized natural materials such as lavastone and cement. Built-in structures were incorporated as seating or storage, and custom architectural features and furnishings were crafted by on-site artisans, who also restored original items like the interior doors.

 
 
 
 

Living Room

 
 
 

Inspiration

 

A heritage home becomes a showcase vacation residence

 
 

Entry Hall

 

A sophisticated moody palette

blended with natural stone

and materials

 

Kitchen

 

Kitchen

Entry niche

 

Stairs and B’fast Nook

 

First Floor Landing

 SHOP THIS PROJECT

Inspired by this look? Find the products used in this project on the Studio Nomad online shop.

 

Bridge to Guest Bedroom

Master Bedroom Detail

Guest Bathroom

Guest Bedroom

Minimal spaces with a big impact

Master Bathroom

Master Bedroom Vanity

Window Detail

Third Floor Landing

Master Bedroom

Master Bedroom Detail

 
 

It all started from here

The existing dilapidated house consisted of a ground and first floor and was left uninhabited for over 50 years.

 
 

Living room - BEFORE

Entry Hall - BEFORE

Guest Bedroom - BEFORE

Existing Plans

Architectural plans

The property had two additional floors added to the existing and various structural and architectural interventions made to allow natural light to penetrate all the spaces in the back of the house and provide a better better use of the individual rooms to accommodate the client’s programmatic needs.

Proposed Plans

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