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System of Quality ManagementUNI EN ISO 9001

System of EnvironmentalManagement UNI EN ISO 14001

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Scavolini uses only Idroleb panels for the carcase of its kitchens:

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The “best seller” kitchen from Italy can be found at:THE ATRIUMMriehel By-PassMriehel BKR3000 - Malta Tel (+356) 2147 0000Fax (+356) 2149 1063Email: [email protected]

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O P E N I N G T H I S J U N E I N N A X X A RLOF T. COM .M T

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Homeworks May Outdoor.indd 1 12/04/2012 16:05

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101 BARBEQUE KINGHilton Malta Executive Chef Joe Vella creates some great barbeque marinade recipes alongside some superb salad ideas

038 TIME LAPSEThe complete transformation of a derelict farmhouse in Siggiewi by Matthew James Mercieca Design Architects

026 THE DESIGN EXPERIENCEArchitects and Andrea Vasallo Cesareo from their new firm, CVC Architecture Studio brings HOMEWORKS their first residential showcase.

046 LIVING LIGHTInterior Designer Adrian Micallef turns a derelict house into a light and airy space for a retired Swedish couple in St. Julians

ISSUE 55 JUNE 2012

contents015 Readers Letters

017 Home News

021 Home Trends

023 Greenworks

026 The Design Experience

038 Time Lapse

046 Living Light

056 The Leverage of Light & Air

064 Summer Sweet

070 Cool It

079 Home Ideas

093 Garden News

095 English Cottage Meets The Med

099 Food News

101 Barbeque King

106 A-Z Directory

114 Address Book

Homeworks May Outdoor.indd 1 12/04/2012 16:05

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editor’s letter HW

It’s now common knowledge that natural sunlight is widely accepted to have an affirmative psychological effect on humans. We feel positive when exposed to natural light, as our brains release serotonin and endorphins into the body when in contact with it. This causes us to feel happier and increase positivity. Not only does natural light obviously save energy, but it’s also crucial to the underlying dynamic of interiors. Good architecture and interior design aims to plan

and design spaces that reflect functional, social and aesthetic considerations. So of course, the amount of daylight received in an indoor space is at the top of a designer or architect’s priority list. Air, or ventilation is another hugely important factor in domestic spaces. When homes are well-sealed and poorly ventilated, they contain indoor air toxins. The World Health Organization has reported that the materials used in up to 30% of newly-built buildings may cause acute illness in individuals residing in them for long periods of time. Indeed, air and light are undoubtedly crucial, which is why this issue of HOMEWORKS is dedicated to the two elements that help make for happy living. Starting on page 025, the three homes featured in this edition exude light and air, while Project Manager Chris DeMicoli delves deeper into the subject on page 054. Speaking of light, it is in fact officially summer soon, so don’t miss our ‘Summer Sweet’ decorating feature on page 062, or our ‘Cool It’ feature on page 068. Chef Joe Vella brings us an inspiring barbeque spread this issue, complete with lip-smacking marinades and smart salad ideas (page 098). This issue brings you so many reasons to be raring to go for summer. Happy basking!

Publisher

Marc Spiteri

eDiTOr

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sAles & MArkeTiNG

aNdreW FarruGia

+356 2133 9999

+356 9933 2224

[email protected]

Pre-Press & PriNTiNG

prOGreSS preSS

pOStaL addreSS / e-MaiL

WriteON Ltd.

airWaYS hOuSe, LeVeL 5,

hiGh Street, SLieMa

SLM 1551 MaLta

[email protected]

HOMEWORKS is published by writeon ltd. every two months on Sundays with an audited circulation of 39,500 copies distributed with The Sunday Times of Malta.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the Publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor no publisher accept responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. While we endeavour to ensure that firms and organisations mentioned are reputable, the editor can give no guarantee that they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. © 2012

tM

IS A REGISTERED TRADE MARK OF WRITEON LTD.

hOMeWOrKSMalta

redesigned for life

OLA20 - kitchen designed by

SPECIAL OFFERStill the end of July

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COMPETITIONGive us YOur feeDbACk AND WiN This fAbulOus PrizeForWArd YoUr ideAs oUtliNiNG WHAt YoU WoUld liKe to see PUBlisHed iN HoMeWorKs. tHe PersoN sUBMittiNG tHe Most iNterestiNG ideA or CoNCePt Will reCeiVe tHis red HiBisCUs PlANt, CoUrtesY oF sHerries GArdeN CeNtre

send your ideas to:HoMeWorKs Feedback, level 5, Airways House, High street, sliema slM 1551 or email: [email protected]

HOMEWORKS NEEDS YOU! readers are invited to submit interesting photographs and a brief description of their homes, which may be distinct in their architectural design. of particular interest are homes that offer outstanding elements of both interior and exterior living spaces.

hOMeWOrks will select the best submissions for future features. send a photo and information for the attention of:

the editor, Writeon ltd., Airways House, level 5, High street, sliema slM 1551 or [email protected] (photos will not be returned)

ANThONY Mizzi is The WiNNer Of The PlANT ArrANGeMeNT WOrTh €25, COurTesY Of PisCOPO GArDeNs

ANThONY WrOTe:

“Young couples have to make do and look for ideas for their new apartments, which are on the market today – basically with one large room comprising living/kitchen dining, and a couple of bedrooms and bathroom without a yard. What i would like to see is ideas on how to gain more light and space – and most of all, storage ideas and versatility.”

bY POPulAr DeMAND! did you know that you can view back

issues of HoMeWorKs on our facebook page? every month we’re updating our facebook catalogue, bringing you those back issues you may have missed out on. Go to facebook and search ‘homeworksMalta’. there are also great prizes to be won every month!

issue 54

winnerS

ANDre` buGeJA

“the reality is that making changes to your house costs a lot of money. Can you suggest simple ways of how we can stick to what we have, but still improve the look of our home? Keep up the excellent work, i love reading HoMeWorKs and i truly believe this is one of the best magazines around!”

JOsePh bAJADA

“Well done for a wonderful magazine. i would like to see more practical tips on how to make the best use of electricity and water in our homes, particularly when using washing machines, showers, electric ovens and other appliances. Consuming less electricity and water should be a must in every home, particularly in view of the effect on the environment, if not for financial reasons.”

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NEW BATHROOM COLLECTIONSThe new bathroom collections at Vella Falzon Bathrooms provide a wide variety of style options with designs that offer great solutions for minimalist, traditional or more ornamental looks. Also worth a mention: their new geometric decorative tiles, which combine extremely well with the wall tiles. Facebook: Vella Falzon Bathrooms

COLOUR!Bring in the colour with this stunning range of hand woven cotton Udaipur dhurries by The Rug Company Studio Collection. The usual great design, gorgeous colours and exceptional craftsmanship you’d expect from The Rug Company, but at a lower price point. www.therugcompany.com

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WARPING WIPEDThe SCILM system is now available from Cucine Lube at Carmelo Delia. The innovative system allows you to store heavy loads without the problems of warping shelveswww.bigbon.com

DISCOVERThe Discover Collection at Bathroom Design is the tile range that offers four new modern and natural shades, as well as Microban antibacterial protection. www.bathroomdesign.com.mt

GREAT OFFERStudio Moda has teamed up with Set One to offer Malta’s first all-inclusive apartment offer at just €8,750 (inclusive of installations and VAT). The package price includes a master bedroom inclusive of a five-door wardrobe, a 3.5 metre TV unit, a dining table, chairs, a corner sofa, a side table and a kitchen, inclusive of appliances and accessories by The Kitchen Store (TKS). The furniture included is all German-made and complete with a 5-year guarantee. www.studiomodagroup.com

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CURRENT >

SEAMLESS LUMINOSITYSpot On has just launched a new type of light fitting made from gypsum to ensure a seamless fitting, as it’s plastered to the wall. The fittings come complete with an electronic ballast and a 26-watt energy saving lamp. A smaller version is also available. www.spotonmalta.com

BELLA BOIACCAAvailable from core, the new Boiacca table by Kristalia stands out for its material, which has been taken to the limit: cement with a special formula and internal reinforcements in stainless steel. The cement legs are incredibly thin, elegant and resistant, allowing the Boiacca table to be used either indoors or outdoors. www.core.com.mt / www.kristalia.it

ORBITALPininfarina design meets Calligaris to create the Orbital dining table. Comfortably seating up to ten people, Orbital opens up dining area spaces with its slide-out extension leaves. The extra-clear glass, which is toughened for maximum safety, reveals the innovative extension mechanism developed by Calligaris’ continuous technical research. Two metal arms support the glass extension leaves that open simultaneously with a smooth rotational movement in a fluid circular motion. www.ideacasa.com.mt

INSULATE WITH NANSULATENow save 20% to 40% on your energy bills with Nansulate® HomeProtect, which allows insulation in the home in the simplest way possible – just painted on. It can be painted on walls, ceilings, over wood, concrete, pre-painted walls, stucco, drywall and more. www.electrofixenergy.com

GLASS GORGEOUS It’s all in the finishing details. Now available at Glow, are the new glass-plated touch switches, which are available in one to three gangs, in different finishes and styles. Simply replace your old switches with these stylish screw-less ones, which work directly on 240 volts.

Tel (+356) 21824101 [email protected] www.macmed.com.mt

Crown’s Breatheasy Virtually Odour Free Paint has no lingering smell, so you can get back in your room in no time. Crown paints cover more surface area per litre than most other paints do, while retaining excellent opacity. That means you get more for less. Available in 16 trendy colours, white and magnolia. Crown Paints. British Quality you will always remember, at a low price you will never forget.

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Innovative pieces that combine a high level of detail with a great level of simplicity

Moon chair by designer Mike To for Objects Design studio, www.objects-design.com

sprinkle lamp by Marte straalberg, contestant in the Nordic Design student Award for Muuto, www.muuto.com

lacquered Time Piece tables by se’, www.se-london.com

kurki leD light by Mari isopahkala, www.mariisopahkala.com

valentine by Marcel Wanders for Moooi, www.moooi.com

TreNDsSUMMer2012“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”

Pebble Taupe Teak Martinique Russett Gurkha

INTERIOR COLOURS THIS SUMMER Homely, charming, understandable and human. Everything is pointing towards a more relaxed, simplified and informal existence.

This summer’s colours are inspired by the natural world, technological discovery and a celebration of craftsmanship, creating a warm, human and joyful mood.

Leonardo da Vinci

023

HWeCo

A SPOTLIGHT ON ENERGY-SAVING AND SUSTAINABLE INTERIORS, TRENDS AND PRODUCTS

COFFEE CUP CHALKBOARDSimple and handy chalkboard handcrafted from recycled vending machine coffee cups. This new innovative material has a lovely solid, heavy, quality feel that’s a lot like slate and is tough and long-lasting too. www.edenproject.com/shop

GR

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EVA BOWLS These hand-painted Eva bowls are made using age-old techniques, natural materials and sustainable methods of production to ensure each product is unique. Each one is hand painted by crafts people from Kashmir, providing employment for these skilled artisans in their own homes.

SPLICEThe latest range by Liqui furniture, Splice, has been inspired by the maritime surroundings of the dockside. Using the angular shapes seen in such things as dockside machinery, sea-defences and the super structure of ships, they have initially produced a set of stacking stools made from sustainably sourced Birch ply. www.liquidesign.co.uk

BLURRING THE BORDERSIn collaboration with Alessi, Foreverlamp have just launched the new AlessiLux Portable Table Luminaire collection; portable luminaires working on powerful rechargeable batteries, which will lighten up any place. www.foreverlamp.eu

EDWINNatalia Cole’s sustainable Edwin fruit squeezer is not only sexy, it also has a philosophy behind its design, created from sustainable materials like wood and ceramic, made to be easily repaired if ever needed. In case Edwin needs to be disposed, its components can be discarded separately for their proper disposal. www.cargocollective.com/nataliacoll/Edwin

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Sumptuous PlumFeature Wall Matt

Gentle FawnMatt,silk

Dulux Paints are available from all leading paint shops

Dulux Malta

Re-decorating a room with Dulux Paint can do more than change the colour of your walls.

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2, South Court, Vjal ir-Rihan, San GwannTel: 2138 9690 Email: [email protected]

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This issue’s focus is all about light and air – or more precisely, sunlight and ventilation. The three homes featured in this edition of HOMEWORKS epitomise the two crucial design elements, beginning with a conversion by Architects Ian Critien and Andrea Vasallo Cesareo from the new architectural firm CVC Architecture Studio. The complete transformation of a derelict farmhouse in Siggiewi by Matthew James Mercieca Design Architects skilfully illustrates how such a house – with the typical problem of natural light deficiency – can be turned into a space with flooding light and fascinating space interconnection. A St. Julians house renovated under the project management of Interior Designer Adrian Micallef shows us that by realigning windowed doors and opening the right spaces, an overall light and airy space can be achieved.

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the designexperienceIt goes without saying that any renovation is always tough, so it’s highly unusual for the homeowners to actually enjoy it, but in this particular case, the circumstance is just that. Architects Ian Critien and Andrea Vassallo Cesareo from their new firm, CVC Architecture Studio bring HOMEWORKS their first residential showcaseWords: elisabeth CardonaPhotography: Alan Carvillestyling: Homeowners with camilleriparismode, one two one interiors

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Glass was the solution to make the pool appear larger than it was. The trees, grass and natural stone helped recreate the original organic feel, while the clean cut and finished lines make it contemporary

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“The concept was to keep the feeling of space, so they wanted to open it up with as much glass as possible”

The concept for the previously open-air courtyard was to keep the feeling of space. As a result, as much glass as possible was used to open it up and roof the area in order to retain the light it brought in, but also merge it with the indoor space. The staircase has been roofed over in order for it to become part of the interior space. The glass roof was taken as high up possible and timber was used to create a design that goes from a somewhat heavy bottom to light top

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t all began roughly a year and a half ago; the initial call to CVC Architecture made by the homeowners was a request for the architects to renovate the

upstairs washroom, as well as their courtyard.

The staircase in the courtyard was uncomfortable; they wanted to be able to use it all year round, but they also wanted to retain the courtyard feel, as well as the staircase. The open-air space was advantageous for a variety of reasons, the most obvious being that it allowed vision upon entrance right through the house to the garden. The second benefit was that it brought a lot of light and air into the house.

So the challenge for the architects was to create something different while retaining the courtyard. Although the alteration would seem drastic, together with the homeowners, they made the decision to work with what was originally there and modify it. The concept was to keep the feeling of space, so they wanted to open it up with as much glass as possible. They came up with the solution of roofing the courtyard with glass in order to retain the light it brought in, but also merge it with the indoor space. They kept the staircase on the side of the courtyard, but roofed it over in order for it to become part of the interior space. They took the glass roof as high up as they could. Timber was used to create a design that goes from a somewhat light bottom to heavy top.

There were various visible existing services that needed to be concealed, hence the idea of the hanging garden on the upper wall in the courtyard. The concept was to bring in an element of green without taking up any space of the floor area.

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One folded piece of steel for the stairs creates a lightweight and contemporary design. The cupboard possesses a design reminiscent of leaves blowing upwards; dense at the top and then lighter as they fall down

The mezzanine, which was also originally part of the external space, now holds ample storage with its large unobtrusive white gloss lacquered 90-centimetre deep cupboards. Now integrated within the interior, this space gives a more permeating flow to the overall area

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The hanging garden is made from plastic cement boards, which also hide the entrance to the boiler room. Previously there was a trap door, which led to the service entrance.

For the now-interior staircase, white quartz was used to create a feel of light and open space; a floating experience upon ascent. The bottom part of the staircase leads to the mezzanine. Here, a change was made in the material used for the stairs between this area and the beginning of the ascent to the converted washroom. One folded piece of steel creates a lightweight and contemporary design. The mezzanine, which was also originally part of the external space, now holds ample storage with its large unobtrusive white gloss lacquered 90-centimetre deep cupboards. Now-integrated, it gives a more permeating flow to the overall area. To complement the hanging garden concept, the cupboard possesses a design reminiscent of leaves blowing upwards; dense at the top and then lighter as they fall down.

The homeowners: “We needed this storage space sorely, so it was the ideal place for it and one wouldn’t even guess that it holds so much. It looks like a design feature with its leaf-inspired design.”

There were various visibleexisting services that needed to be concealed, hence the idea of the hanging garden on the upper wall in the courtyard

The concept of the hanging garden was to bring in an element of green without taking up any space of the floor area. To the right, timber was used to create a design that goes from a somewhat light bottom to heavy top

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During this phase of renovation, the homeowners and architects forged a bond, bouncing ideas back and forth, inspiring one another to create even better concepts. The homeowners became inspired to renovate the back garden, “something we had been wanting to do for a long time, but just never took the first step.” Previously, the garden was distinctly organic, possessing a lot of character. The floor was paved with Ciangatura tiles and the space was crowded with vegetation and trees. Although the tiling against the green backdrop was somewhat charming, there were problems with it, such as its mossy state in winter and its dry, dusty state in summer.

Ian Critien: “One of the biggest challenges with the garden was to make a drastic transformation without moving any trees. They’re old trees and we all felt that they had value. We also didn’t want to lose the charm and character of an old garden. Apart from this, the house was finished, so we couldn’t get a crane or any machinery in. We wanted to create a modern garden, but we didn’t want anything stark or sterile. The long talks and interactive feedback with the client helped a lot with the inspiration flow.”

When the architects began planning out the space, they began with reorganising the naturalness of the garden by using more contemporary takes on natural materials; timber granite, glass and water.

striking contrast between the old dining/living space and the new courtyard

light and airy in an old space; cosy arched living area leading out to the contemporary canopy covered outside dining area

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The wall to the left was closed off to conceal storage space, as well as a small bathroom. The wall units were customised to create even more storage

Andrea Vassallo Cesareo: “Not being able to bring equipment in meant that we needed to create a raised pool – without it looking like a bathtub.”

Glass was their solution. It would make the pool seem larger than it was. The trees, grass and natural stone helped recreate the original organic feel, while the clean cut and finished lines made it contemporary. Seemingly simple details, such as the trees puncturing through materials created a stylish detailed feel.

The glass was a challenge, as it had to be frameless at the end to appear as though it was unsupported. This brought on implications; the possibility of a substantial overflow, and the hazard of it cracking or breaking. The architects went about devising smart solutions to ensure that it was sound and functional.

The granite block, which goes straight into the pool, was also a challenge. Andrea: “The solution to this was to isolate two slabs through a groove between the submerged block and above.”

Other unseen technical elements make for clever design, such as the concrete around the slab, which isolates the stone from the soil and the damp underneath, or the close-spaced linear gutter, which ensures that there will never be a water spill on to the dining area. There is storage space built into the deck and around the pool, and the deck also conceals the pump room.

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The homeowner: “We love the decking, as it not only looks fantastic, but it’s so functional. Apart from concealing unsightly things, it also ends up doubling as a bench when a lot of people are in the garden. It makes the space extremely social-friendly, which is ideal for us, as we entertain quite a lot.”

The shower in the corner of the garden was specifically customised to be an outdoor one, with its hardwearing and water resistant materials. The concept was to create a space where the user feels as though they’re having a shower in nature. A hidden shower tray makes it appear as if the water is going into the ground.

The shading canopy was designed and custom-made by the architects. Andrea: “When we were designing it, we wanted to hit two birds with one stone – we wanted to shade the dining area during the day, but we also wanted to create a light source for the evenings, rather than install them on the walls. The L-shape stemmed from the brief that the client didn’t want to beam the interspace below, but wanted slim shade, high up. The weaved sunshade material achieves this, and we integrated a light source into the frame on the side. The steel bars keep the sails and beams in place.”

The homeowner: “We’re very pleased with the overall result. We managed to find two architects who took the time and effort to understand us and the house, which led to an overall fantastic vision. My father was an Interior Designer so I’ve always grown up in modern houses. It was critical for me to add the new element to the old space. It’s always been home, but now it’s just so much more functional, fitting our current lifestyle with the children being older. It may seem unlikely, but it really has been a wonderful experience – us all working together and then CVC carrying out those concepts without us having to worry about anything. It’s been a great journey.”

Customised casings to store firewood, as well as create a focal point. Outdoor tables and chairs from camilleriparismode

The new garden design was built around the existing mature trees. storage space was built into the deck and around the pool, and the deck also conceals the pump room

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Opposite Ta’ Xbiex Yacht MarinaBlue Harbour Business Centre, Ta’ Xbiex TXB 1043

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The complete transformation of a derelict farmhouse in Siggiewi by Matthew James Mercieca Design Architects

hings and places could just lie in disrepair for decades: motionless and decaying. As they lie there, taking on unwelcome intruders, environmental attack

and corrosion, they long for somebody to re-establish a need to use them. Inanimate objects may not really be just that. They interact with each other and us to give us an experience. But it takes time, effort and investment to bring about a force of transformation over these objects.

This force of change is something that takes courage to grapple with. Our urban fabric requires evermore an effective force with the right skills to bring about the change we all require to live better. In relation to these skills, time is a particular variable. Projects can have definitive targets and take a very short time, and others may be more indefinite requiring their own time. From six weeks to six months to a year or four – the relative timing of a project to the potential lifetime becomes almost indistinguishable.

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Words: Matthew James MerciecaPhotography: raimondo di egidioArchitects: Matthew James Mercieca design Architects [MJMdA]styling: MJMdA with Calamatta landscapes, BoConcept, Brands international

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A seemingly resilient mass floats over the pool and hang in the void of the original courtyard

When you get to the other side of what is hinted to you on entry to the house, you can choose: do I want to come back outside or stay inside?

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Rather convoluted and prior home to several animals in dark, humid rooms in the original courtyard, this farmhouse was left to its own devices for a long time. Flaking paint, crumbling walls, decay: all present at the outset. The starting point of the determining force of change took form through our firm and a couple of architects, who could start envisaging that changing the purpose of this place was possible. Our brief meant that the crowded courtyard buildings had to go, and that the entrance could act as a key axis from the inside, to the pool area and back to an indoor space, a lure of sorts creating a suggested path to follow.

On either side of the entrance, and in synchronicity to the view lines to the outside, storage cabinets doubling up as sources of light were designed to add functionality to the space: coat hanger, storage, key holders, mood light and service cabinet. To the left, a generous study was created and to the right, a two-car garage that opens up onto the pool area.

Through a corridor balanced by arches subtending the view from the kitchen to the ever-present courtyard and pool area, a movable timber panel conceals the guest sanitary facilities. The kitchen / dining are integrated and flow onto a cosy living room. In turn, a Mediterranean interpretation of a conservatory that is well shaded was created – at the same time opening up generously to the outside courtyard extending its functionality in summer, and providing a cosy inside space, with the illusion of being outside in the winter. Carefully crafted stairwell to allow light in from above and filter light

through landings to transform what is traditionally dull with living light

The central yard, pool and dynamic mass retain the role of a fulcrum while driving the entrant through kitchen/dining, living room and conservatory

Childcare EducationChildcare Education

Enrico Mizzi Street Ta Xbiex. Tel: 21310111 Email: [email protected]

WOOD, LAMINATE & VINYL FLOORING SOLUTIONSNow available in Malta through the technical sales point:

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Stores / O�cesIndustry

In education, the life of a �oor re�ects the di�erent ages of its users. Over many years, Tarkett has forged partnerships in projects throughout the education system, working with children, students and teachers to develop better learning environments.

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Flooring solutions in the healthcare segment must respond to numerous demands. Health and hygiene are a clear priority, but the �ooring must also provide a range of technical features and create a suitable environment where patients can heal and sta� can work in comfort and ease.

Childcare EducationChildcare Education

Enrico Mizzi Street Ta Xbiex. Tel: 21310111 Email: [email protected]

WOOD, LAMINATE & VINYL FLOORING SOLUTIONSNow available in Malta through the technical sales point:

From the vibrant, edgy boutique to mass market chains, brand image helps get shoppers through the door. Flooring plays an essential role in creating the image, but it’s also a vital tool in choreographing and enhancing the customer experience.

Stores / O�cesIndustry

In education, the life of a �oor re�ects the di�erent ages of its users. Over many years, Tarkett has forged partnerships in projects throughout the education system, working with children, students and teachers to develop better learning environments.

HealthcareWetroom Aged care

Flooring solutions in the healthcare segment must respond to numerous demands. Health and hygiene are a clear priority, but the �ooring must also provide a range of technical features and create a suitable environment where patients can heal and sta� can work in comfort and ease.

The courtyard affords access around the pool to a raised timber deck, lifting sunbeds up to the sun and allowing the pool to be a more spacious volume of water. As one travels round the pool to this deck, the retrospective view becomes clear. A new, sharp mass hangs in the balance over a fulcrum column. As the new presence stands proportionately in the void of the courtyard, it provides hidden visual links to the pool and the sky from the bed of the third bedroom that inhabits this volume. You could sleep over water and beneath clear skies here.

Timber flooring provides warmth and cosiness, which contrasts with the carefully chosen restored limestone walls and other plastered and painted ones.

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Whilst all service arrangements are carefully catered for in an all but invisible service core, we ascend through the restored staircase that has had its landings replaced to glazed and artificially illuminated ones to inject natural light all the way down to ground floor from the carefully positioned skylight above. The main bathroom suite is the epitome of space with 53m² flowing from a plush bedroom with mini-lounge to a real dressing room, to a bathing room with a freestanding bath, separate shower and a WC with integrated vanity. Timber flooring provides warmth and cosiness, which contrasts with the

carefully chosen restored limestone walls and other plastered and painted ones. Two other bedrooms with ensuites provide great amenity and rising to the roof, where one is exposed to a view of the village church, as well as a bird’s eye view over the coaxed volumes in the courtyard below.

Time: it passes but hangs there too. And age seems to bring about layers that juxtaposed in time and across it, yield solutions that transcend any particular instance.

free-standing bath set on softening timber floors, with a vanity concealing the WC

The ‘his’ side of the walk-in wardrobe

Matching the drama of the freestanding mass on the outside, the bedroom encapsulates a high ceiling with a taste for art and exposition

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Interior Designer Adrian Micallef turns a derelict house into a light and airy space for two retired Swedish doctors in St. Julians

Photography: Alan CarvilleWords: Guy laguensinterior Designer & Project Manager: Adrian Micallef

LIVING

The formal sitting room, which doubles as an independent living quarter with access to the bathroom through the garigor

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wo and a half years ago a Swedish couple – both doctors who were looking to retire soon – decided to visit Malta upon the recommendation of friends. The idea was simply to look at

property, but definitely not buy anything immediately. When they were taken to view a house in Spinola, it took all of five minutes for the couple to decide they wanted it there and then. The new plan: to retire in Malta.

Since the couple couldn’t move to Malta in time for the conversion, they entrusted the renovation over to Interior Designer and Project Manager Adrian Micallef. Their brief was direct. They wanted ample light throughout. They wanted to have open spaces where they could entertain and chat to guests while prepping and cooking. The couple also needed spacious bedrooms for their grown children and friends when visiting. They wanted a study that would be large enough for their books. They wanted to retain some of the traditional Maltese features so that the overall design would be an amalgamation of Maltese traditional, modern and Scandinavian.

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Without doubt, the biggest challenge was that the house was in such a state of neglect when purchased. Interior Designer Adrian Micallef, “Even though it had been lived in, it was like an abandoned old house. Pieces of it were falling apart, there were water leakages throughout, mould was rampant, the electricity was a mess, the ceiling was missing on part of the upper staircase, and actually there wasn’t even an upper staircase – we had to get upstairs through the narrow garigor.

“Even though the house itself was not enormous, the challenge was in the state we found it in. Luckily, I enjoy finding solutions to problems so I really had my work cut out for me here.”

The house sits over three floors. The ground floor entrance leads up to the middle floor, which is where the bedrooms, garden, study and formal living room are situated. In order to meet the homeowners’ request to bring in as much light as possible, Adrian aligned the door in the study to the door opposite leading to the garden, which was very effective in opening up the flow of light and ventilation. On the same level on the other side of the house, the formal sitting room can be blocked off so that it becomes like a small independent living quarter, with its access to the bathrooms in the ‘garigor’, as well as entrance to the garden, which Adrian removed the door and leading room of in order to also bring in more light.

Here, the garden was in the same state as the rest of the house – abandoned and chaotic. Bougainvillea overruled most of the small space, which made it impossible to even see its potential. But once the Bougainvillea was cut back, the trees

Ground floor entrance, which retains the most Maltese character throughout the house

The contrast of scandinavian minimalism against a backdrop of Maltese character

iconic 1956 lamino easy chairs by designer Yngve ekstrom

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“They wanted to retain some of the traditional Maltese features so that the overall design would be an amalgamation of Maltese traditional, modern and Scandinavian”

The alignment of the study door with the door to the garden opposite was effective in opening up the flow of light and ventilation

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SPECIAL OFFERS till the end of July 2012

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beyond it were realised and now a small but very comfortable outdoor space had been created.

Going up to the top level, the upstairs limestone staircase was newly made by Adrian’s father, stone decorator Nicholas Micallef. Originally on the bottom floor, the kitchen space was allocated to the top level so that the homeowners could cook and entertain on the same floor. The large open plan space was designed to lead out to the large terrace that overlooks Spinola Bay.

Previously L-shaped, part of the terrace was roofed over, which aided in making the upstairs living area into one, larger room. A skylight was then built into this new roof over the staircase.

Due to the homeowners’ desire to be comfortable and cosy (a Scandinavian trait it’s been said), the main feature of the upstairs kitchen/living area is the free-standing fireplace, which was imported from overseas, produced by Belgian company Don Bar. Under-floor heating and air conditioning was also installed to ensure the house would not be chilly in winter and hot in summer. Originally, the house possessed a Maltese balcony that was torn away due to a simple iron rail, but is now replaced by a new original double-glazed Maltese balcony.

The kitchen space was previously divided into two. The wall was opened up so that an open plan kitchen with room for the sizeable breakfast table could be created. The kitchen itself was completely customised out of American Walnut and more storage was created within it.

The garden was found abandoned and chaotic, dominated by unruly bougainvillea, which when cleared up, transformed into an atmospheric outdoor area

The Don bar free-standing fireplace, which is the main feature of the upstairs living area

bathrooms converted from box rooms within the ‘garigor’, saving space in the rooms, as well as providing separate access to them from all floors

Previously l-shaped, part of the terrace on the third floor was roofed over, which aided in making the living area one large room

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One of the biggest challenges was the bathrooms of the house. Previously box rooms, they are now situated within the ‘garigor’ on the side of the house. Adrian, “We didn’t want to steal any space for the rooms, which is why we opted to convert these box rooms into the bathrooms, keeping them in this area. This way, there is separate access to them from all the floors. It was quite a challenge to create these bathrooms in such a narrow space (90cm x 90cm) without the toilet getting wet from the shower. We aligned the concrete floors and ceilings in level with the garigor steps and inserted part of the good sized custom-made basin into the wall, to keep as much space in the room as possible. We then divided the shower from the rest of the room with a glass panel”.

In terms of soft finishing and furnishings, all the walls were painted a brilliant white in order to maximise the natural light. Ceiling soffits were installed throughout to ensure the smooth overall finish. All the loose furniture was brought over from Sweden, which creates an interesting style with the Scandinavian pieces against the Maltese backdrop. Notable to mention are the couple’s various pieces by Swedish designer G.A.D., the red chair in the study by Danish designer Fritz Hansen, and the black “Adam” wooden chair in the bedroom by Swedish designer Kerstin Hörlin-Holmqvist, made in 1958. Worth a picture is the iconic 1956 Lamino easy chair by designer Yngve Ekstrom sitting against the typical white Maltese balcony in the main bedroom.

The end result of a very tough yet effective conversion – a light and airy house in Spinola, ideal for entertaining and extremely comfortable for easy and relaxed retirement days. “We are so pleased with our new house. It’s the perfect contrast to our very quiet country house in Sweden. Here, we can relax with friends while watching the bustle of Spinola from the comfort of our large terrace. It really is quite the perfect retirement plan.”

upstairs living area leading to a large balcony that overlooks spinola; ideal for entertaining friends

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naturestrong by

Marble cladding is strong by nature. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor.

The Factory, Mosta Road, Lija LJA 9016 - Malta T: +356 21 433636 F: +356 21 412499 E: [email protected] www.halmannvella.com

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THE LEVERAGE OF LIGHT & AIR

Project Manager Chris DeMicoli explores the history of light and air

in architecture, highlighting its discovery and significanceWords: Chris deMicoli, deMicoli & Associates

Mnajdra spring equinox

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n the beginning – long before the invention of artificial elements – man studied, utilised and understood the importance of light and air; and he saw that it was good. This is apparent in man’s early history,

where cave dwellers would divide their space into different functions based on air and light, with campfires placed at the entrance for cleaner air and security. This illustrates the importance and influence of light and air from the very beginning. In Europe, this began with Greek and Roman architecture, highlighted in the Gothic era, moving towards Renaissance and the Baroque era with the introduction and interaction of light and air. It is important to remember that light and air are two major parameters when it comes to design and art; from Van Gogh’s drawings of wind in haystack paintings and Caravaggio’s method of Chiaroscuro – literally translated as ‘light and dark’ – to Michelangelo’s David, a three dimensional piece sculpted by light and shadow. Throughout history, man’s reaction to these two elements have shaped our architecture and environment.

In the Gothic era, the muse of air and light along with new developments in construction and engineering techniques led to a new style of architecture. This design of overpowering architecture was used in these grand churches, the point of which was to emphasise entering heaven, which was created by natural light flooding the interior. This effect was further emphasised through the use of coloured glass windows, where the piercing light was tinted with an array of colour invoking a sense of supernatural. When it comes to the relationship between air, light and design, there is no greater example than the Gothic movement where the authority of air and light was created through the synergy of architecture and engineering.

Moving forward, Renaissance architecture developed primarily from elements of ancient Greek and Roman architecture revived in a more modern form – where man was placed in the centre of the universe. This style focused on symmetry and proportion, but also catered to man’s fascination with light. In this period, Michelangelo’s famous painting of creation in the Sistine Chapel portrayed God’s outstretched finger, at the tip of which was a beam of light;

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The residential functions circulate though the duplex volume, the effect creating pockets of intimacy in an airy and light space highlighting the spatial functions

embodying the wonder of light and how man viewed the happening as spiritual and important – the magic wand of creation, “Let there be light”. Further along, the Baroque movement played on the sense of aesthetic, the use of sculpted walls and the interaction of light. This involved sculpting folds and pleats, allowing light and shadow to give art further dimensions. These workings of shadows and depths were mimicked in architecture and led to decorated facades, balconies and columns. It is important to note that all these eras greatly acknowledged the importance of light and air, and more essentially used them as parameters to drive the design movement.

However, air and light and its influence did not merely stop at design and spirituality. The Jantra Mantra located in New Delhi is a perfect illustration of how man utilised air and light for other purposes; in this case the use of an astrological instrument. One instrument called Samrat Yantra is a giant triangle pointing towards the North Pole, which includes graduations representing hours, minutes, and seconds. At the

time of the Samrat Yantra’s creation, sundials were not a new invention; however the Samrat Yantra was a colossal one and turned the basic sundial into a precision tool for measuring time and astrological movements. Similarly, the Hypogeum in Paola was built in such a manner since one of its features was solar worship. The ‘Holy of Holies’ deep within the heart of the Hypogeum was constructed to be illuminated by the annual winter solstice sunrise. Likewise, the Mnajdra Temple was designed so that on the equinox, sunlight would pass through the main doorway and illuminate what was thought to be a shiny piece of metal or polished stoned on the altar. Technological advancements halted these sorts of design features, but the lack of necessity does not mean this form of architecture should be altogether forgotten. A good local example is the new Wurth project located in Zebbug. This project includes a modern day solar calendar with light-sensitive diodes imbedded into the system. This dome will have a single hole at the top where light will enter and specific diodes will be triggered by the sunbeam, marking important dates in the history of the Wurth Company.

Alhambra – palace of intricate carvings, enhanced by natural light

hypogeum – ‘holy of holies’ Mnajdra Temple

Alhambra – inside the palace, looking at infinitesimal detail carvings of islamic geometric patterns

Mashrabiya or shanasheel

A Dun Karm Xerri Street, Iklin.T +356 2141 9111F +356 2148 5126E [email protected]

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With the introduction of artificial light and air, design and architecture changed completely. So does this mean with the introduction of artificial systems, that the architect might have become too reliant on these methods and dismissed passive systems as being unimportant and vernacular? As we’ve passed through the ages of design we’ve seen what embodiment architecture and its reaction to air and light means for culture – so has the self-reliance on these synthetic systems somewhat diluted contemporary architecture?

Mashrabiya system intricate screening system

Jantar Mantar, using air and light as astrological instruments

samrat Yantra part of Jantar Mantar, New Delhi

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Good design has become a desirable commodity in today’s society, along with the movement of sustainable and eco buildings; but experimental or even exploratory steps in the residential side of architecture only occur on the smallest of scales. A good method of discovery for sustainable design and the merging of passive and artificial systems is to look at nature. One example is the study of termite mounds, where the hope of applying the termite’s principles to full scale projects would result in more energy efficient structures, utilising natural light in certain areas and the gaps to manage air circulation needs. Perhaps the answer lies in going back to natural passive systems, which instead could be augmented by artificial systems. This means that passive systems should be viewed as a parameter, which can influence the form of design, where the function and reliability of the system will be enhanced by augmented artificial systems.

Wurth project in zebbug, which integrates a passive solar calendar with a high-tech interactive system to create an interactive solar calendar

section of solar calendar, Wurth Project

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SUMMERSWEETPhotography: Alan Carvillestyling: troika Zammit & lisa Borainshoot location: tigné Pointspecial thanks to tabone direct

Chairs, clockwise: O-Nest lime green armchair by Moroso (€360) from CASANOVA • Ripple white chair with legs in stainless steel by Moroso (€260) from CASANOVA • Re-Trouve yellow chair by Emu (€931) from FINO • Plop Outchair (€53) from STUDIO MODA • Re-trouve Green chair by Emu (€931) from FINO • Alieno chair by Casamania, by Gamfratesi (€370) from LOFT • Multi-coloured chair from the Kente range by Varaschin (€405) from ONePerCeNT.

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Re-Trouve dining table by Emu (€1,339) from FINO • Freestanding wine bucket (€66.72) from COSE CASA • Blue glass bottle (€10.11) from COSE CASA • Green and blue striped glasses (€2.75 for a set of 3) from COSE CASA • Coloured napkins (€2.68 per pack) from COSE CASA • Lime fire sparker (€3.50) from GIFTS & MORE • Dinner plates (€6.27 per plate), dessert plates (€5.70 per plate), soup bowls (€6.27 per bowl) from COSE CASA • Yellow cutlery (€39.06 for a 24-piece set) from COSE CASA • Salad-On-ice bowl (€25.50) from GIFTS & MORE • Lime tongs (€9.50) from GIFTS & MORE • Plastic green bowl (€5.87) from GIFTS & MORE • Glass punch bowl (€34.49) from COSE CASA • Yellow striped Bodum cups (€7.95 for a 2-piece set) from Tks.

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SHOWROOM: 1, PIETRU FELICI STREET QORMITELEPHONE: 21 491727EMAIL: [email protected]: www.homesbybdi.comFACEBOOK: BDI QORMI

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“Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability”

From left to right: Dinner plates (€6.27 per plate), dessert plates (€5.70 per plate), soup bowls (€6.27 per bowl) from COSE CASA • Yellow cutlery (€39.06 for a 24-piece set) from COSE CASA • Blue glass bottle (€10.11) from COSE CASA • Green and blue striped glasses (€2.75 for a set of 3) from COSE CASA • Glass punch bowl (€34.49) from COSE CASA • Nest lime green armchair by Moroso (€360) from CASANOVA • Freestanding wine bucket (€66.72) from COSE CASA

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FIND IT:

CAsANOvA triq san tumas, luqa. tel: 2180 0221 / 2180 0214. [email protected] / www.casanova.com.mt

COse CAsA 77, triq it-tlett Knejjes, Balzan. tel: 2144 7672/3. [email protected] / www.cosecasa.com

fiNO triq Notabile, Mriehel. tel: 2549 3000. www.fino.com.mt

ONePerCeNTtriq il-Wied, Msida. tel: 2546 5000. [email protected] / www.onepercent.com.mt

GifTs & MOre, TOPliNetriq sant Andrija, st. Andrews. tel: 2137 2256. [email protected] / www.giftsandmore.com.mt

lOfTtriq san Pawl, Naxxar. tel: 2180 8944. www.loft.com.mt

sTuDiO MODA triq in-Naxxar, san Gwann. tel: 2138 6812. www.studiomodagroup.com

Tks, The kiTCheN sTOre82, triq in-Naxxar, san Gwann. tel: 2138 6812. www.tks-onlinestore.com

TAbONe eNTerPrises lTD.Zona industrijali. triq l-imprendituri, Mriehel. tel: 2144 3193. [email protected] / www.tabonedirect.com

Yellow and green Re-Trouve chairs by Emu (€931 each) from FINO • Re-Trouve dining table by Emu (€1,339) from FINO • Plastic green bowl (€5.87) from GIFTS & MORE • Plastic tongs from salad on ice bowl from GifTs & MOre

HW CooliNG sYsteMs

Apart from incorporating the latest technology, Airtech air conditioners are renowned for their unique stylish designs. Starting from €490 from Clima 755

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insulation, HOMEWORKS brings you the best ways to keep your home cool this summer

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COOLING SYSTEMS >

Panasonic air-conditioning split unit. starting from €600 from Mekanika

AIR CONDITIONERS

Damian Mallia at B&M Supplies says, “It’s a myth that air-conditioning costs are so expensive. A system with R410A, which is the latest refrigerant, does not cost that much to run”.

Miguel Cutajar at Cutrico says, “A regular sized inverter system costs about .16c per hour to run, while a fixed speed would be around double that if both were working at full speed simultaneously”.

Charlene Briffa at Artech says, “An AA classified AC uses approximately the same amount of energy as an AA refrigerator”.

SYSTEMSNorbert Attard at Clima 755 (distributors of Airtech) explains, “There are two types of air-conditioning systems these days. First there is standard, which has a fixed speed compressor. In this case, you set the temperature at a degree and the compressor continues to run at this degree 100 percent until it reaches two degrees lower than the desired one. It then turns off. Once the room is cooled, it starts warming until it reaches two degrees higher than the one initially programmed. Then it switches back on. When it switches back on, it consumes a lot of electricity. The other type of system has an inverter compressor, which never switches off. It controls the speed by going on idle. This type of compressor is much more intelligent than the standard one, as there is no start-up and as a result, no waste of electricity. In a nutshell, an inverter system uses between 30-35% less electricity than a standard one”.

Miguel Cutajar at Cutrico says, “Inverter units are more of an investment so they’re the better option if the air-conditioner is being used a lot.”

LG air-conditioning unit, €985. Find it at LG Cool Air ideal temperature all year round, delivered with high energy saving and extremely low noise with Toshiba AvAnt Inverter, starting at €850. find it at Cutrico

keeping indoors cooler with fresh air with samsung’s high performance air-conditioning unit, starting from €549 (9,000btu, installed with three metres copper). find it at sound Machine

TYPES The most expensive type of unit is the concealed air-conditioner, which is installed above a false ceiling and is circulated through vents. Common in commercial spaces, the cassette type of air-conditioner is built into the ceiling, but is still exposed. The most popular and least expensive type is the high wall unit, which is the rectangle shaped unit that is fixed on to the wall. Least common are the floor-mounted types.

Miguel Cutajar at Cutrico says, “The VRF system is a growing market. These are outdoor units that feed a number of indoor units. It’s more of an investment to install, but it’s highly efficient”.

AIR QUALITY Nowadays, the quality systems include filtration systems, which improve air quality. Anti-viral and anti-bacterial filters ensure that the air is clean of pollutants and are beneficial for those who suffer from asthma. A lot of systems also include other features, such as a dehumidifier, a super quiet option or a petro sensor, which senses smoke, dust or pollution in the air and automatically kicks in to extract the toxins.

Approximately 8,000 Maltese children suffer from asthma and some 1,000 are admitted to hospital because of it each year, according to the Malta Ministry for Health. It’s worth considering the advantages of providing clean air in the home.

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INSTALLATION, SERVICE & MAINTENANCESome companies are merely air-conditioning importers and sub-contract companies to install and service, while other companies contain the installation and service staff in-house.

David Cassar at CAS says, “Maintenance is an important issue, so to maintain the right cooling efficiency of the unit before the peak season is a highly recommendable service”.

ADVICEDavid Cassar at CAS says, “Customers need to get the right btu/hr from experienced air-conditioning personnel so that no energy is wasted. Further to this, it helps to ensure that the right cooling and heating for the place is installed. Also, installing before the peak season ensures that customers don’t have to wait long for their installation”.

AIR-CURTAINS

An air curtain is a device used to separate two spaces from each other, normally at exterior entrances. The most common configuration for air curtains is a downward-facing blower fan mounted over an opening, blowing air across the surface of the opening. Most common, the opening is an entrance to a building, or opening between two spaces conditioned at different temperatures. Air curtains help keep outside air out, reducing infiltration though the opening.

David Cassar at CAS says, “Today, everyone is aware of the importance of energy saving. Air curtains are great for shops, as the door can be left open to invite customers in, but still retain the cool air inside the shop”.

SKYLIGHTS

Bespoke skylights, which can be opened to encourage ventilation, are a good cooling solution. Miguel Cutajar at Cutrico says, “We install a lot of skylights that open automatically for ventilation, as well as in the case of fire. The glass we use is double-glazed and UV protected so it doesn’t heat the area below, as some may imagine. Heat rises, so when the skylight is opened, the heat exits, creating a cross ventilation.

COOLING SYSTEMS >

ChiGO hi-wall type AC units, offering european design with a class A/A energy efficiency. inclusive of ‘super silent’ mode with a full five-year warranty on parts and labour. Choose from three different models to match different interior decoration. Starting from €475 including installation at Cassar Airconditioning systems ltd (CAs)

highly economic Panasonic and Mitsui air-conditioners, carrying up to six years full warranty. starting from €520 including installation from Ar Tech

AIR-CONDITIONING EU CLASSIFICATION

The most energy efficient air-conditioners are AA.

On every EU air-conditioning label, you should find:

• the model• the energy efficiency category from A to G• the annual energy consumption (full load at 500 hr per year)• the cooling output at full load in kW• the energy efficiency ratio in cooling mode at full load• the appliance type (cooling only, cooling/heating)• the cooling mode (air- or water-cooled)• the noise rating in dB (where applicable)

For air conditioners with heating capability, you will also find:

• the heat output at full load in kW• the heating mode energy efficiency category

TRUSTED AIR-CONDITIONING BRANDS AVAILABLE IN MALTA

Chigo from CAS (www.chigogroup.com)Hitachi from CAS and Klimaflo (www.hitachiaircon.com)Daikin from CAS (www.daikin.com.mt)Airtech from Clima 755 (www.clima755.com/airtech.htm)Toshiba from Cutrico (www.toshiba-aircon.co.uk)Airwell from Cutrico (www.airwell.com)Panasonic from Artech, Klimaflo, LG Cool Air (www.panasonic.net)Mitsui from Artech (www.mitsuiairconditioner.com)Mitsuvita from B&M Supplies (www.bmsupplies.com)Klimaflo from Klimaflo (www.klimaflo.com)Mitsubishi from Klimaflo (www.mitsubishielectric.com)SANYO from LG Cool Air (www.panasonic.net)

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COOLING SYSTEMS >

insulated tiles laid on top of the roof to reduce heat absorption and heat loss. find it at Waterproof-it

Mitsuvita air-conditioners from b&M supplies – reliable, super silent, energy efficient and guaranteed after sales, starting from €444. visit the www.bmsupplies.com for a free quotation.

Airtech air-conditioners, starting from €490, from Clima 755

SOLAR SHADING

Miguel Cutajar at Cutrico says, “We provide solar shading for skylights, which stop the UV rays from coming through altogether. They’re GPS automatic, which guides them to protect against the sun.

INSULATION

Mark Debono at Waterproof-It says, “We provide two ways to reduce heat absorption: the first is by laying insulated XPS material tiles on top of the roof and the other is to fix XPS materials to the wall, which create thermal barriers.

OTHER WAYS TO KEEP IT COOL(ER)

• Use portable or ceiling fans

• Reduce the loss of conditioned air with caulk and weather-stripping

• Install inexpensive heat-reflecting film on windows that face the sun

• Block the sun with drapes or shades

• Plant now to provide shade in the future

• Closely monitor the temperature both inside and out with an indoor/outdoor thermometer. (When it’s cooler outside, open up windows and doors to ventilate)

• Arrange furniture and drapes so they don’t restrict airflow

• Reduce indoor humidity by minimising mid-day washing and drying of clothes, showering, and cooking

• Turn off heat-generating lights and appliances unless you absolutely need them

FIND IT:

ArTeCh, 120, triq Fleur de lys, B’Kara. tel: 2144 1300. www.artechmalta.com

b&M suPPlies, B’Kara Bypass, B’Kara. tel: 2144 0710. www.bmsupplies.com

CAssAr AirCONDiTiONiNG sYsTeMs lTD, 307, Misrah il-Barrieri, st Venera. tel: 2123 0777 / 2123 0778. www.casmalta.com

CLIMA 755, 18, triq Guzeppi licari, B’Kara. tel: 2723 4567. www.clima755.com

CuTriCO serviCes lTD, Cutrico Building, triq Ferrovija l-Antika, sta Venera. tel: 2149 8658 / 2149 8693. www.cutrico.com

kliMAflO Air-CONDiTiONiNG, 16, triq il-Hgejjeg, san Gwann. tel: 2701 1118 / 9949 5161. www.klimaflo.com

lG COOl Air, Vjal ir-rihan, san Gwann. tel: 2138 4206 / 2134 1697.

MekANikA lTD, Gasan Centre, triq il-Merghat, Qasam industrijali, Mriehel. tel: 2778 8500. www.mekanika.com.mt

sOuND MAChiNe, B’Kara, Paola & Qormi. www.soundmachine.com.mt

WATerPrOOf-iT lTD, Mimosa, triq F. Vidal, ibragg-swieqi. tel: 9947 1527

You know we use the highest-quality materials and have a legacy of satisfied clients – but few realise the diversity in our range, with furniture for every budget. Talk to our dedicated staff who will help you make the right decisions.

Visit our showroom and see why Joinwell is an easy choice.

Mill Street, Qormi | 2278 2000 | www.joinwell.com.mt

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Array of five knives, each with flared stainless steel bolsters for added safety and comfort, adding a splash of colour without comprising performance – the colour coded handles easily identify each knife and contrast with the graphite coloured storage block with a protective acrylic cap. (dishwasher safe.) Price: €58. Gifts&More, level 1, Topline, triq san Andrija, st. Andrew’s (opposite luxol grounds). tel: 2137 2256. www.giftsandmore.com.mt

Make your home Italian!Choose Chateau d’Ax

Seagullavailable in leatheror microfibre upholstery.

Visit www.chateau-dax.itand see the clip with all our offers.

Chateau d’AxOld Railway Track – Santa Venera – (Malta) - Tel: +356 2144 6411Opening Hours: Mon 09:30 to 13:00 and 15:30 to 20:00

Tue to Fri 09:30 to 13:00 and 15:30 to 19:00Sat 09:00 to 13:00

C Homeworks 230x305 Seagull Giugno 14/05/12 16.11 Pagina 1

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the new luce range of appliances from Hotpoint-Ariston – each appliance inclusive of a host of innovative features, such as patented High definition cooking, Flexipower dishwashing technology and laundry eco Cycles. special offers – buy your Hotpoint-Ariston appliances from any leading furniture outlet and benefit from vouchers redeemable from forestals. Forestals. tel: 2343 6279. [email protected]

the new Marc Newson range from smeg represents the true essence of the smeg philosophy: technology with style. Newson’s unmistakable style emerges in the soft lines, user-friendly features of the ovens, gas hobs and induction hobs. forestals showroom, Mriehel. tel: 2343 6000. www.forestals.com / [email protected]

A set of crystal votive candles by orrefors – timeless scandinavian elegance, innovative design and genuine craftsmanship. Price: starting from €16. raphael Azzopardi, tal-ibrag. tel: 2137 3812.

receiver of the prestigious excellent swedish design award, crystal glasses by orrefors possess a line with an eye-catching white drop suspended in the stem. raphael Azzopardi, tal-ibrag. tel: 2137 3812.

Give summer some colour with Pavina Glassware by Bodum – various sizes available. Price: €7.95 for a two-piece set. Tks the Kitchen store, 82, triq in-Naxxar, san Gwann. tel: 2138 6812. the Point shopping mall, level -2, tigne sliema. tel: 2060 1055. the duke shopping Mall, level -1, triq ir-repubblika, Victoria, Gozo. tel: 2099 9910. www.tks-onlinestore.com

Make your home Italian!Choose Chateau d’Ax

Seagullavailable in leatheror microfibre upholstery.

Visit www.chateau-dax.itand see the clip with all our offers.

Chateau d’AxOld Railway Track – Santa Venera – (Malta) - Tel: +356 2144 6411Opening Hours: Mon 09:30 to 13:00 and 15:30 to 20:00

Tue to Fri 09:30 to 13:00 and 15:30 to 19:00Sat 09:00 to 13:00

C Homeworks 230x305 Seagull Giugno 14/05/12 16.11 Pagina 1

WINDOW BLINDS OF PURE DISTINCTIONCHOOSE THE BEST. BE UNIQUE.

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Email: [email protected]

www.portelliandbrincat.com.mt

Available exclusively at…

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leisure Pools offer a lifetime structural and osmosis Warranty on all their Kevlar Carbon Fiberglass composite pools, with a great range of models, sizes and colours to choose from. Price: Fully functional pool starting from €13,500. leisure Pools europe ltd, No 25, triq Victor denaro, Msida. tel: 7947 3922. www.leisurepools.com.au

Poliresina material fountain, available in a large selection of various sizes and shapes. Price: €115. sherries Garden Centre, triq Burmarrad, Burmarrad. tel: 2158 [email protected]. Facebook: sherries Garden Centre

sia Budhha Head, measuring 48cm in height. Price: €105 / Plants starting from €10. floreal home, triq il-Parrocca, Naxxar. tel: 2747 0744. Facebook: Floreal Home

the Provence Garden Furniture collection by Neptune is a marriage of French styling, genuine granite and modern scientific coating to ensure long-lasting protection from the elements. Price: €935 for one table and four armchairs. One Two One interiors, Vjal il-Wiehed U Ghoxrin ta’ settembru, Naxxar. tel: 2142 2948/9 & ix-Xatt, sliema. tel: 2132 3155. www.onetwoone.eu

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this coco baby lounger is ideal for a contemporary living space, with its modern styling and iconic form – inclusive of a smooth self-rocking motion, soft seat pad and a 5-point safety harness. Price: €190. rockababy (sole agents for Bloom), 156/158, triq Kbira, Mosta. tel: 2701 3823 / 9976 2529. www.rockababymalta.com

Atlas is offering two months free home and boat insurance with every new policy, as well as a fire blanket for the kitchen or galley. An Atlas Homepak offers protection, which is one of life’s greatest assets – an excellent policy with many non-standard extra benefits is also included. Atlas insurance. tel: 8007 3434. www.atlas.com.mt

setone sectional sofa (so3250), available in various colours and finishes. Price: starting from €1,590. studio Moda, triq in-Naxxar, san Gwann. tel: 2138 6812. [email protected]

Mirror-covered coffee table with bevelled edges and a hollow middle section. (size 110cm x 48cm x 46cm). Price: €429. The Mirror shop, 122, triq il-Kappillan Mifsud, st.Venera. tel: 9942 3392. [email protected] / www.themirrorshop.eu

Manacor is a modular sofa offering various positions to enjoy at home – different fabrics and patterns available to choose from. Price: starting from €1,700. @240, triq Zabbar, Fgura. www.240.com.mt

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Modern individually suspended glass bubbles spooled by aluminium filaments – also available as single pendants. Price: starting from €35. Degabriele Gift shop, triq Zabbar, Paola. tel: 2169 6945. Facebook: degabriele Gift shop

Agave suspension by Fabasluce – suitable for the dining table. Price: €200. vCT ltd light & Design, triq Ponsomby, Mosta. tel: 2143 2571. [email protected] / www.vct.com.mt

Marika floor lamp by Fabasluce – to adorn a living room or a corridor. Price: €200. vCT ltd light & Design, triq Ponsomby, Mosta. tel: 2143 2571. [email protected] / www.vct.com.mt

transparent hand-blown glass with internal aluminium sphere. Price: starting from €220. Degabriele Gift shop, triq Zabbar, Paola. tel: 2169 6945. Facebook: degabriele Gift shop

A vast selection of lighting has just arrived at Balistuff. Price: starting from €28. balistuff, triq in-Naxxar, Naxxar. tel: 2157 4913 / 7959 6209. [email protected] / [email protected] / www.balistuffmalta.com

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Be inspired by beautiful home fabrics and go a step further by choosing the made-to-measure curtain and blind service, or request a home consultation to better create the look that’s right for you. Price: Upon request. special offer: Free 32” Philips tV when spending over €2,000. One Two One interiors, Vjal il-Wiehed U Ghoxrin ta’ settembru, Naxxar. tel: 2142 2948/9 & ix-Xatt, sliema. tel: 2132 3155. www.onetwoone.eu

Wide range of teak wood panels for wall and ceiling hanging decoration, all made from high-grade teak wood and carved by well trained craftsmen who contribute their individual talents to create unique pieces, each making a distinctive statement of its own. Oriental Treasures. tel: 2702 8693 / 7906 3212 / 7972 9661. [email protected] / www.orientaltreasures.wix.com/oriental-treasures. Facebook: oriental-treasures

Fabulous fun for the young - flower power takes to the road with Nomade by carréblanc. Price: for a single duvet cover: €68. special offer for the month of June – with every €100 spent on carréblanc products, you get a €20 voucher towards your next purchase. carréblanc, tal-Balal road, san Gwann. tel: 2138 8880, 2738 8880, or shop on Facebook: www.facebook.com/carreblancmalta and go to ‘shop’

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the new rotex HPsU compact 308 is a regenerative air/water heat pump with an integrated 300 litre solar storage tank with a a surface area of just 59 x 61 centimetres; a footprint of 0.36 m2. the compact 308 keeps space requirements to a minimum, making installation easy and creating a whole new standard for the utilisation of space. klimaflo, 16, triq il-Hgejjeg, san Gwann. tel: 9949 5161.www.klimaflo.com

Underfloor water or electric heating systems with warranties ranging from 10 years, 15 years and also lifetime. Clever homes ltd, triq testaferrata, ta’Xbiex. Price: Upon request. tel: 2132 4473 / 7949 6097. [email protected] / www.cleverhomes.com.mt

At Bulthaup, the new solid walnut front takes craftsmanship and technology to the next level by interspersing three layers of wood with two fine layers of aluminium to create something truly beautiful. core, triq il-Wied, on the way up to triq Mannarino, B’Kara. tel: 2144 3449. www.core.com.mt / www.bulthaup.com

All types of garage doors, insulated sectional doors, gate remote control motors, and balcony railings. Price: Upon request. kenneth Darmanin. tel: 9947 4786. [email protected] / www.kennethdarmanin.com

eCo Board is a polyurethane product that maintains the temperature inside the building, thus reducing the cost of energy. the product encompasses mechanical strength and high resistance to moisture – a simple, hassle-free installation that is attached to walls and roofs, and can be applied to all buildings. eco Group ltd Malta, BlB 13C, Qasam industrijali, Bulebel, Zejtun. tel: 2099 8979. [email protected] /www.ecogroup-mt.com

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MONTREAL AND MOREBrands International has just launched Montreal outdoor furniture. A wide variety of composite and hardwood decking in tiles or strips is also now available. www.brands.com.mt

MINI FARM MAXIMISATIONNew from the bestselling author of Mini Farming Brett Markham, Maximizing Your Mini Farm: Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre offers techniques for maximising a mini farm, describing a holistic approach to small-area farming that illustrates how to produce 85 percent of an average family’s food on just a quarter acre (equivalent to just over 1,000 square metres). www.amazon.co.uk

MARVELLOUS MUSHROOMSPiscopo Gardens brings us the new Marvellous Mushrooms range, making growing mushrooms easy. They’re suitable to be grown indoors and outdoors with all the growing instructions available on the packets. White Button, Chestnut Button, Pink Oyster, Golden Oyster and Shiitake Mushrooms are all now easily available. www.piscopogardens.com

GARDENNEWS>

LOOPINGNew to Loft is the Looping outdoor carpet from Limited Edition by Dutch textile designer Helene Dashorst. The pattern follows the natural movement of a rope, with some 1,600 attachment points per square metre – a feat of considerable technical difficulty involving hundreds of hours of manual work. The carpets can be used outdoors as well as indoors, as they’re UV and damp-resistant. www.loft.com.mt

BOUGAINVILLEA BRIGHTBrighten up any outdoor space with new Bougainvillea now available at Sherries Garden Centre

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Words: Melina scodanibbioPhotography: tonio lombardi

hen the owners bought the Siggiewi house, they barely took any notice of the ploughed patch of earth with a couple of old Citrus trees at the back. There was no

direct access from the house, making it even more difficult to integrate with the living areas. However, when they moved, they realised the usefulness and potential beauty of the space, which possesses the best view of the Siggiewi church. By living in the area, as well as by observing the light patterns and surroundings, as renovation works progressed, the function and layout of the garden slowly started to fall into place. The homeowners decided against a swimming pool, which could have somehow been squeezed in, but to the English-born lady of the house, a lush garden that could be enjoyed year-round was far more important. And enjoyed it definitely now is, its three distinct seating areas attracting the family (and Smudge the cat!) out at different times of the day: the dining area, the coffee corner and the tiny deck at the far end, which is the last sun spot in winter, perfect for reading and relaxing.

WA successful outdoor living space becomes a destination, a focal area tailored to suit the owner’s lifestyle; it’s a relaxing and entertaining space, which draws people into it, and is not merely looked at from the inside. This central Siggiewi garden, despite its small dimensions, achieves just that

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English CottageThe Med

The coffee corner with the central planter with the barbeque area in the background

Gaura lindheimeri blooms profusely and lends to the cottage look

meets

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Clever idea: stone bench that was formerly a step is now part of the planter

The colour scheme is repeated throughout, from soft furnishings to accessories

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Wisteria

Despite all of this happening in a relatively small space, it feels surprisingly uncluttered and spacious, offering different vistas and moods. The space seems larger; thanks also to the diagonal lines of the layout, as well as the central planter offering a lovely oasis feel. Had the planting been relegated to mere strips along the walls, the effect would have been completely different. The planter walls were constructed from recycled stone, while the stone benches were originally old steps. A path and some stepping-stones provide easy access around the garden and between the plants.

The three queen palms (Arecastrum romanzoffianum) take centre stage, providing a cool, dappled shade, which makes the umbrella almost unnecessary. Choosing the central feature plant was not easy, as a tree would have perhaps been too imposing – in the end the palms turned out to be the perfect choice, with their rustling fronds adding character and life. The rest of the planting evokes the English cottage garden style, recreated by using typically Mediterranean species. Lavenders, Rosemary, Tulbaghia, Santolina and many herbs provide a soft, fragrant palette, while Bougainvillea, Plumbago and Jasmine clad the walls. An olive tree shades the barbeque area and supplies a good crop of fruit, which, together with the herbs and a few vegetables, are used in the kitchen. The two cypress trees were planted to echo and frame the twin belfries of the church, which dominate the skyline.

While initially there was no access into the garden, the kitchen and lounge, the two main living areas now lead directly into this green lung. It has become an outdoor room of comparable importance to the internal ones, and similarly it is decorated and accessorised with interesting objects according to the occasion.

A successful outdoor living space becomes a destination, a focal area tailored to suit the owner’s lifestyle

WHAT TO SOW IN JUNE / JULYVegetables: Spinach, radish, broccoli, cabbages, cauliflowers, leeks, turnips, carrots and brussels sprouts. Repeat sowings of herbs

Flowers: Transplant the last summer annuals, sow wallflowers and stocks in seedbeds for transplanting at a later stage

Bulbs: Lift bulbs, clean and store in a cool dry place

Attention to detail and colour coordination make all the difference in an outdoor space

Sound Machine. Psaila Street, Birkirkara - T: 2149 7111 • 15, Paola Square, Paola - T: 2169 7232 • Mdina Road, Qormi - T: 2744 5551SoundSmart. Constitution Street Mosta T: 2143 0569 Sales & Service Centre: Maxi Quartz. 311-313, Zabbar Road, Fgura - T: 2180 6661Gozo: Sound & Vision. Victoria - T: 2156 4060

Series ES7000 & ES8000 with Voice & Hand Motion Control

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MEET THE NEW TECHIE GENIO®The new exclusive technology that adapts to your taste. Available in red and titanium, the NESCAFÉ® Dolce Gusto® Genio® allows you to customise your favourite cup’s strength and mixture with its selection wheel and automatically stops the flow of the beverage according to the dosage level selected on the scale. www.facebook.com/NESCAFEDolceGustoMalta

FUNNY FOODThe idea behind dressing up Mona Lisa in plums and Shakespeare reinvented as a red delicious apple stemmed from Bill and Claire Wurtzel’s desire to get their daughters to eat healthy foods. A fun, funny book. www.funnyfood.us

NO MORE TEARSOnions have the defence mechanism of chemical weaponry. Inside the cell walls of a typical onion are a collection of enzymes which, when cut and separated, create propenylsulphenic acid, which further break down into propanethial S-oxide gas. These gases waft outwards from the onion, eventually dissolving into the tears that coat your eye, turning them into a mild sulphuric acid. Our tear-ducts produce more tears to help dilute the caustic chemical. The new Onion Goggles from R.S.V.P. fit snugly over the eyes, sealing them up and protecting them from those sulphurous fumes.

VIVA VITALIANOThe new Vitaliano range by Silit made of Silargan, which is anti-bacterial and nickel-free. The range includes handy features, such as ovenproof handles, see-through lids with a stainless still rim, an extra sturdy steel core and a pasta insert with an anti boil-over function and draining device. Find it at TKS The Kitchen Store. www.tks-onlinestore.com

FOODNEWS>

CORKCICLEKeeping wines at just the right drinking temperature is a great dilemma, especially in our summer heat. Too cold and it could mask the vintner’s uniquely crafted complexities. Too warm, and the flavours may take a back seat to the alcohol. Corkcicle assumes the answer to this perplexity. Placed inside the bottle, this cool new gadget chills the wine from the inside. www.corkcicle.com

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Hilton Malta Executive Chef Joe Vella brings HOMEWORKS some great barbeque marinade recipes for beef, lamb, baby chicken and swordfish to try out this season, alongside some superb salad ideas. Bill Hermitage from Delicata Winery suggests some delectable wines to complete those long summer day dining experiences

recipes: Joe Vella, Hilton Malta Wine recommendations: Bill Hermitage, emmanuel delicata WinermakerPhotography: Natacha soaed styling: troika Zammit

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From left to right: Tray plating the fruit from TKS • White square plates from TKS • SP red and white striped bowl from GIFTS & MORE • SP salt & pepper shakers from GIFTS & MORE • SP oil & vinegar bottles from GIFTS & MORE • ‘Cold Drinks’ tub from LITTLE LUXURIES • Red Kartell tray from TKS • Blue polka-dotted plastic cups from GIFTS & MORE • Pitcher from GIFTS & MORE • Blue plastic wine glass from GIFTS & MORE • Portable barbeque from LITTLE LUXURIES • Apron from GIFTS & MORE • Tongs from GIFTS & MORE

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ingredients

2tsp whole grain mustard

1tsp olive oil

1tsp maltese honey

1tsp walnut oil

1tsp ginger, crushed

1tsp garlic, crushed

1tsp lime juice

1tsp orange juice

salt & pepper

baby Chicken Marinade

MethodMix all the ingredients together in a bowl and leave it to infuse for two hours in the fridge.

MethodBlend all of the ingredients together and leave to infuse in the fridge for one hour.

ingredients

1tsp ground cumin

1tsp english mustard

½tsp sugar

½tsp coriander

½tsp dry tarragon

1tsp zest of orange

¼tsp maltese honey

salt & Pepper

rib of beef Marinade

ingredients

1tsp soy sauce

1tsp sweet chilli sauce

1tsp fish sauce

6tsp olive oil

½tsp lemon juice

1tsp ginger, crushed

1tsp garlic, crushed

salt & pepper

swordfish Marinade

MethodCombine all the ingredients and then mix the marinade with the fish. leave to infuse overnight.

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“For these assorted summer salads i’m going to recommend a white and a rosé wine, whereas for the barbequed foods i’m opting for a couple of reds, even though one of them is a fish dish. As is the case with most salads, they are at their best when the cold elements of the dish are fresh, crisp and chilled, and to accompany these refreshing flavours i am going to recommend wines that have the same attributes. For the white i have chosen a crisp, delicate, fruity dry white that is drinking particularly well at the moment and is very easy on the pocket. it’s the 2011 vintage Pjazza regina White made from a great blend of four grape varieties; Chardonnay, Girgentina, Viognier and Vermentino. this delightful white wine will go particularly well with the grilled zucchini, aubergine, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella salads. For the grilled peppers, new potatoes with bacon and the pasta salad with prawns, i would recommend a new rosé wine, the 2011 vintage Medina rose Grenache syrah. this fruit-driven,

refreshing, crisp, dry rosé wine is a really pleasant blend of two varieties that produce an excellent juicy wine, which carries an aromatic, delicate strawberry bouquet. But to get the best out of both of these wines make sure you drink them nice and cold, especially if you are dining al fresco. For the heavier, chargrilled flavours that attach themselves to all barbequed meat, poultry and steak fish dishes, i would go for a medium to full bodied, easy drinking red that will be acceptable with everything. Maybe even something you can chill down slightly, so we need to avoid overly tannic red wines. My first choice would be the 2010 vintage Medina sangiovese. A slightly spicy, medium bodied red, that has a little bit of bottle age making it soft, velvety and smooth. My second choice is bit fuller bodied, as it’s made from a blend of the two Cabernet grapes. it’s the 2010 vintage Victoria Heights Cabernet sauvignon Cabernet Franc made from Gozitan grapes. this wine is full of jammy, ripe fruit flavours, has bags of character and nice silky, soft tannins.”

WINE RECOMMENDATIONS BY BILL HERMITAGE

DELICATA WINERY

2011 PJAzzA reGiNA WhiTe i.G.T. MAlTese islANDs

2011 MeDiNA rOse GreNAChe sYrAh D.O.k. MAlTA

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2010 viCTOriA heiGhTs CAberNeT sAuviGNON

CAberNeT frANC - D.O.k. suPeriOr GOzO

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OuTDOOR STRuCTuRESBARBECuES

CALYPSOMANU FACTURING LTD.

Calypso Manufacturing Limited5, Cospicua Road, Fgura FGR 1261, Malta.Tel: 2180 4588 • Mob: 7906 5125 • Fax: 2180 4487

Knowing how to create spaces designed for outdoor architecture

Tranquility anywhere above the hassle of everyday life

Do you want to spice up your outdoor look this summer?

Then come to our showroom, OPEN ALL DAY.

Petrolea Ltd, Valley Road, Msida • Tel: 2123 4501 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.petroleamalta.com

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B U I L D I N G F I N I S H I N G S O L U T I O N S

Brands International Ltd. 125, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara, BKR9047, MaltaTel: 2144 4110 | 2744 4110 Mob: 7977 1100 e-mail: [email protected]

www.brands.com.mt

Whether it’s balconies or patios, open areas in the garden or around the pool, at Brands International you can set premium quality at your feet outdoors too.

Quality Decking at Brands International

Special offers on all decking till the end of July 2012

240 limited, triq Haz-Zabbar, Fgura. tel: 2367 6100. [email protected] / www.240.com.mt

3 City Designs / lOfT, 2, triq san Gwann t’Ghuxa, Cospicua. tel: 2180 8944. [email protected] / www.3citydesigns.com

Ar Tech, triq Fleur de lys, B’Kara. tel: 2144 1300. [email protected] / www.artechmalta.com

Asia Arts, 114, triq il-Kbira, sliema. tel: 2133 4564. 39, triq Abate rigord, ta’ Xbiex. tel: 2133 5688 / 7082 2785. www.asiaartsmalta.com

Astral, triq Abate rigord, ta’ Xbiex. tel: 2134 0562. / 2134 5522. triq Birkirkara, san Gwann. tel: 2138 5868 / 2137 3236. [email protected] / www.astral.com.mt

Atlas Group, 48 -50, triq ix-Xatt ta’ ta’ Xbiex, ta’ Xbiex. tel: 2343 5363. [email protected] / www.atlas.com.mt

b&M supplies ltd, triq dun Karm, V’Kara By Pass, B’kara. tel: 2144 0710. www.bmsupplies.com

bathroom Design, 358, triq in-Naxxar, B’Kara. tel: 2144 1328/9. [email protected] / www.bathroomdesign.com.mt

bali suff, tal- Balal road, Naxxar. tel: 2157 4913 / 7959 6209. [email protected] / www.balistuffmalta.com

banju boutique, triq l-Arkata, Paola. tel:2180 9111 / 2180 9112. [email protected] / www.banjuboutique.com

bDi, triq Pietru Felici, Qormi. tel: 2149 1727/2. [email protected] / www.homesbybdi.com

biggie best, triq tal-Balal, san Gwann. tel: 2138 8880 / 2738 8880. [email protected] / www.biggiebestmalta.com

blueline halmann, triq Achille Ferris, Msida. tel: 2131 6432/5. triq in-Naxxar, lija. tel: 2141 2187 / 2141 4288. [email protected] / www.blueline.com.mt

bOv, 58, triq Zakkarija, Valletta. tel: 2131 2020. www.bov.com

brands international ltd, Bo Concept Building, Vjal ir-rihan, san Gwann. tel: 2144 4110 / 2744 4110. [email protected] / www.brands.com.mt

Calypso Mfg ltd, 5, triq Cospicua, Fgura. tel: 2180 4588/ 9947 4190. [email protected]

Carmelo Delia (est. 1890), triq il-Wied, B’Kara. tel: 2388 9200 / 2147 2882. [email protected] / www.bigbon.com

CAs, 307, triq il-Barrieri, st.Venera. tel: 2123 0777 / 2123 0778. [email protected] / www.casmalta.com

Casanova, triq san tumas, luqa. tel: 2180 0214 / 2180 0221. [email protected] / www.casanova.com.mt

CD Power solutions Co. ltd, Ciancio House, triq il-Kanun, Qormi. tel: 2148 0500 / 9999 8586. [email protected] / www.powersolutions.com.mt

Clever homes, triq testaferrata, ta’ Xbiex. tel: 2132 4473 / Mob: 7949 6097. www.cleverhomes.com.mt

Clima 755, 18, triq Guzeppi licari, B’Kara. tel: 2723 4567 / 9943 7755. [email protected] / www.clima755.com

Contemporary Designs, 6, triq Antonio Muscat Fenech, Qormi. tel: 7944 5866. [email protected] / www.contemporarydesigns.com.mt

Core, triq il-Wied, B’Kara. tel: 2144 3449. [email protected] / www.core.com.mt

Creations Omnistat, liland Buildings, triq l-Mdina, Attard. tel: 2141 1541/ 2141 7616. [email protected] / www.creationsomni.com

Cutrico, triq il-Ferrovija l’ Antika, st. Venera. tel: 2149 8658 / 2149 8693. [email protected] / www.cutrico.com

De valier, triq san Gwakkin, Bini industrijali, Mriehel. tel: 2149 1111. Fairline Centre, triq santa Marija, Victoria, Gozo.tel: 2155 6694. [email protected] / www.devalier.com.mt

Degabriele Gift shop, triq Haz-Zabbar, Paola. tel: 2169 6945. [email protected] / www.degabrielegiftshop.com

eco Group, BlB13C, Bini industrijali, Zejtun. tel: 2099 8979 / 9999 8089 / 7980 8086. [email protected] / www.ecogroup-mt.com

emmanuel Delicata Winemaker ltd, the Winery on the Waterfront, Paola. tel: 2182 5199 / 7982 5199. [email protected] / www.delicata.com

electrofix, triq Valletta, Qormi. tel: 2167 5353 / 2767 5353. [email protected] / www.electrofixenergy.com

farrugia lighting & interiors, triq dun Karm Xerri, iklin. tel: 2141 9111. [email protected] / www.farrugia.com.mt

fGP ltd, 109, triq Valletta, luqa. tel: 2166 7107/8 / 2167 5384. [email protected] / www.fgp.com.mt

fino, Fino Buildings, triq Notabile, Mriehel. tel: 2549 3000. [email protected] / www.fino.com.mt

fimbank, 7th Floor, the Plaza Commercial Centre, Bisazza street, sliema. tel: 2132 2100. [email protected] / www.fimbank.com

floreal Home, triq il-Parrocca, Naxxar. tel: 2747 0744. [email protected]

forestals, Bypass Mriehel, Mriehel. tel: 2343 6000. www.forestals.com

form ltd, triq il-Wied, B’Kara. tel: 2144 6000. www.formltd.com

Glow, skyway ltd, 179, triq il- Marina, Pieta. tel: 2733 3788. [email protected]

G r f ltd., triq Bella Vista, san Gwann. tel: 2137 7378 / 7942 4422. [email protected] / www.grfmalta.com

halmann vella, the Factory, triq il- Mosta, lija. tel: 2143 3636. [email protected] / www.halmannvella.com / www.halmannvella.com

horvin ltd, A 42, Qasam industrijali, Marsa. tel: 2122 6320. [email protected] / www.horvin.eu

hydrolectric ltd, triq il-Kappilan Mifsud, Hamrun. tel: 2124 1111. [email protected] / www.hydrolectric.com.mt

Joinwell, triq il-Mithna, Qormi. tel: 2278 2000. [email protected] / www.joinwell.com.mt

JTs Trading, triq il-Kummerc, Qormi. tel: 2149 6415 / 9944 6951. [email protected] / www.jtstrading.com

kenneth Darmanin ltd, triq Joseph l Zerafa, Zurrieq. tel: 9947 4786. [email protected] / www.kennethdarmanin.com

klimaflo, triq il-Hgejjeg, san Gwann. tel: 2701 1118/9 / 9949 5161. [email protected] / www.klimaflo.com

krea ltd, triq l-imdina, Qormi. tel: 2146 3501. [email protected] / www.krea.com.mt

leisure Pools, 25, triq Victor denaro, Msida. Mob: 7947 3922. [email protected] / www.leisurepools.com.au

M.Demajo, Misrah iz-Zebbug, Qormi. tel: 2148 7078. [email protected] / www.demajotimbers.com

Mac Med ltd, enrico Mizzi street, ta’ Xbiex. tel: 2131 0111. www.macmed.com.mt

MC interior Designers, 219, triq Villambosa, Hamrun. tel: 9949 5577 / 2124 2425. [email protected] / www.mc-interiordesign.com

Mekanika ltd, Bypass ta’ l-Mriehel. Mriehel. tel: 2778 8500. [email protected] / www.mekanika.com.mt

Nestle Malta ltd, triq Pantar, lija. tel: 2338 9000. www.dolce-gusto.com.mt

One Two One interiors, Vjal il-Wiehed u Ghoxrin ta’ settembru, Naxxar. tel: 2142 2948/9. ix-Xatt ta’ Qui-si-sana, sliema. tel: 2132 3155/65. [email protected] / www.onetwoone.eu

Onepercent, triq il-Wied ta’ l’Msida, Msida. tel: 2546 5600 / 2546 5000. [email protected] / www.onepercent.com.mt

Oriental Treasures, tel: 2702 8693 / 7906 5212 / 7972 9661. [email protected]

Outdoor solutions, triq il-Wied, Msida. tel: 2099 0009. [email protected] / www.weinor.com

Petrolea, triq il-Wied, Msida. tel: 2123 4501 / 2123 5487. [email protected] / www.petroleamalta.com

Piscopo Gardens, triq tony Camilleri, Burmarrad. tel: 2158 3755. [email protected] / www.piscopogardens.com

Portelli and brincat, triq Kukkanja, st. Venera. tel: 21488 8119 / 2148 2831. [email protected]

raico ltd, Amethyst, triq lorenzo Manche, Attard, tel: 2142 0794 /99422 9893. [email protected] / www.raico.com.mt

raphael Azzopardi, 6, triq l-Uqija, ibrag. tel: 2137 3812.

rockababy (sole agents of Bloom) 156/158, triq il-Kbira, Mosta. tel: 9976 2529. [email protected]

satariano, 122, triq il-Wied, B’Kara. tel: 2149 2149. www.satariano.com

seamless solutions, 4, triq Guze duca, Qormi. tel: 2144 0404 / 7940 0404. [email protected] / www.seamless.com.mt

shaker ltd, triq il-Gibjun, san Gwann. www.shaker.com.mt

sherries, triq Burmarrad, Burmarrad. tel: 2158 0021. [email protected]

sphinx, entrata Buildings, triq Haz-Zebbug, Attard. tel: 2143 0075/6 / 21434 0076. [email protected] / www.sphinxcreations.com

spot On, triq il-Palmi, Paola. tel: 2166 8880 / 7981 7777. [email protected] /www.spotonmalta.com

sound Machine, triq salvu Psaila, B’Kara. tel: 2149 7111. [email protected] / www.soundmachine.com.mt

studio Moda Group, triq in-Naxxar, san Gwann. tel: 2138 6812. www.studiomodagroup.com

Tabone enterprises ltd, Zona industrijali, triq l-imprendituri, Mriehel. tel: 2144 3193. [email protected] / www.tabonedirect.com

Titan international ltd, the lyric, triq Antonio Bosio, Msida. tel: 2131 0029. 2134 1697. [email protected] / www.titan.com.mt

The Atrium, Homemate, Bypass ta’ l’Mriehel, Mriehel. tel: 2147 0000. [email protected] / www.theatrium.com.mt

The house shop interiors, 1 Marina Business Centre, triq Abate rigord, ta’ Xbiex. tel: 2133 4226. [email protected]

The kitchen store, 82, triq in-Naxxar, san Gwann. tel: 2138 6812. the Point shopping Maill, level - 2, triq tigne, sliema. tel: 2060 1055. the duke shopping Mall, level -1. triq ir- republika, Victoria, Gozo. tel: 2099 9910. www.tks-onlinestore.com

The Mirror shop, 122, triq il-Kappillan Mifsud, st. Venera. tel: 2701 4794. [email protected] / www.themirrorshop.eu

The rug Company, Area F, Blue Harbour Business Centre, ta’ Xbiex. tel: 2132 4990. www.therugcompany.com

Topline, triq sant Andru, st. Andrews. tel: 2137 2256. [email protected] / www.giftsandmore.com.mt

vCT ltd light & Design, triq Ponsomby, Mosta. tel: 2143 2571. [email protected] / www.vct.com.mt

vee Gee bee ltd, 2 south Court, Vjal ir-rihan, san Gwann. tel: 2138 9690 / 2138 1380. [email protected] / www.vgb.com.mt

vella falzon bathrooms, triq regjonali, Msida. tel: 2144 5165. triq l’imgarr, Ghajnsielem, Gozo. tel: 2155 0232. [email protected] / www.vellafalzon.com

tO advERtISE In thIS SEctIOn PLEaSE caLL: 2133 9999 OR EmaIL: [email protected]

BOV HOME LOANS 2131 2020 I bov.com

Issued by Bank of Valletta p.l.c.58, Zachary StreetValletta VLT 1130 - Malta

Once upon a time you chose your dream home. Now is the time to add features you’ve always wanted, like a swimming pool or some additional space. We can make this process more straightforward and affordable than you think. Talk to us today for more details.

Loans are subject to normal bank lending criteria and final approval from your BOV branch. Terms and conditions apply. The term of the loan must not go beyond retirement age.

renovating your fairytale home

Your success is our goal.

BO

V 3

0773 122, Valley Road, B’Kara

T 2149 2149 satariano.com




AIR & LIGHTA high impact start to 2012

ISSU

E 55

INSPIRATION IMPROVEMENT STYLE

ISSUE 55 JU

NE 2012

HIGH DESIGN /

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CLEVER PRICE

w. ONEPERCENT.COM.MTT. 2546 5000

E. [email protected]. VALLEY ROAD,

BiRKiRKARA, MALTA

Bedroom and walk in wardrobe solutions by Pianca available

exclusively at onepercent.

Homeworks_May2012.indd 1 5/16/12 11:32:40 AM

homeworks 55

Documents

best seller kitchen

commadagascar wall tiles

new wall tiles

cleaner world

pianca available

valley road

lowest formaldehyde

water repellent v100