DOMA || A Modern Architect's Townhouse in Historic Valetta, Malta
Nestled across four distinctive floors, the owner-architect townhouse by Chris Baffa Architects in Valetta, Malta, boasts a unique identity for each level.
While every floor showcases a different personality, a consistent and refined design approach ties them together.
The ground floor, being the oldest section, is elegantly restored to house a welcoming guest suite. It features impressive arches and bespoke concrete walls that echo its history. Ascending to the first floor, one is greeted by a vibrant bedroom bathed in warmth. The attached bathroom, inspired by the charm of the 70s, showcases a retro vibe, thanks to reclaimed tiles and a reflective ceiling.
Impressive arches in the courtyard space.
The kitchen is a spacious, utilitarian space, with a sophisticated Bulthaup B2 kitchen keeping the space clutter-free. White brick, beams, and marble flooring unify in colour and play with textures.
The second floor is the heart of the home, with the spacious family room offering a casual yet chic setting. A Bulthaup B2 kitchen seamlessly integrates with the dining and lounge areas, complemented by a library with distinct Mondrian influences.
Innovation shines in the master bedroom, where spatial constraints birthed the ingenious concept of a bridge connecting the sleeping quarters to the bathroom. This en-suite glass oasis, featuring a steel-marble vanity, evokes the tranquillity of Asian designs. A standout feature is a transparent floor, offering a unique visual link to the courtyard below, beautifully merging the public with the intimate.
The master bedroom uses a refined material palette of marble, chocolate-toned wood, and monotone for a minimalist look.
Steel and marble vanity in the master bathroom.
The top floors, crafted using recycled masonry from the earlier renovation stages, open to a sun-kissed terrace. Their design is reminiscent of Nordic simplicity and functionality. Among their highlights is an art studio on the pinnacle floor, where curvilinear timber designs adorn the ceiling, a labour of love accomplished by the architect and his father.
The mirrored ceiling and retro tiles in the guest bathroom offers a glimpse of the owner’s playful side.
Reflecting on eight years of residence, Briffa fondly recalls the countless cherished moments within these thoughtfully designed spaces. From the playful reflections in his son’s bathroom to the unexpected interactions through the main bathroom floor and the multi-purpose rooftop that effortlessly blends leisure with functionality – each corner of this home tells a story.
Rooftop terrace and whirl pool tub.
We found this hand drawn sectional endearing and playful. What do you think?
PROJECT DETAILS
Architect: Chris Baffa Architects | Instagram
Location: Valletta, Malta
Photography: Aldo Amoretti